To step back into the past, include a visit to the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse in your Washington state travel plans. This historic structure on the Long Beach Peninsula and its sister, the North Head Lighthouse, have guided many mariners into the mouth of the Columbia River. The Cape Disappointment light is the oldest functioning lighthouse on the West Coast.
Learn about the history of the lighthouse. Navigation in the area of the Columbia’s mouth is extremely treacherous. In fact, in 1853 a boat carrying construction materials for the lighthouse sank before it reached the cape. The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse was ultimately completed in 1856 and became the primary navigation aid where the Columbia River meets the Pacific Ocean. In 1898, the second lighthouse, the North Head Lighthouse, was added due to the continuing number of shipwrecks.
The Cape Disappointment Lighthouse is an impressive 53 feet (16 meters) tall with a tower that is 10 feet (3 meters) across at the light. Look up at the rotating beacon, which can be seen 17 miles (27 kilometers) out to sea. At one time, lighthouse operations included a 1,600-pound (725-kilogram) fog bell, but it proved too quiet to be heard above the din of the roaring surf.
To approach the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse on foot, walk about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) from the trailhead parking area at the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. The trail begins with an unpaved and possibly muddy section past the ominously named Deadman’s Cove. Then a rather steep section is paved, part of a service road from the Coast Guard compound.
Explore the grounds and exterior, recognizing that the lighthouse is still active. You may see Coast Guard staff inside or in the area. If you prefer not to make the hike, view the black-and-white-striped lighthouse from the interpretive center. Bring binoculars to pick out details.
Find the Cape Disappointment Lighthouse 2.7 miles (3 kilometers) south of Ilwaco in Cape Disappointment State Park. The park is open daily year round. Purchase a state park Discover Pass for vehicle access day use.
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