Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

Ilwaco, Washington

5.0/5

based on 4 reviews

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Distance

1.5 miles

Elevation Gain

500 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Sarah Horn

Within a mile stretch you are exposed to a ton of history and natural beauty: Fort Canby, Deadman's Cove and Cape Disappointment lighthouse.

Cape Disappointment State Park is nearly 2,000 acres of old growth temperate forest located at the mouth of the Columbia River that contains lakes, coves, two lighthouses, and military forts. One of the forts and lighthouses is Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment lighthouse, which date back to the Civil War Era.

The out and back hike ends at the lighthouse and along the way you'll come across Fort Canby, which you can explore for free, Lewis and Clarke Interpretive Center, and Deadman's Cove. The Interpretive Center is perched right on the Pacific Ocean with amazing viewpoints of the ocean and cliffs below.

This short hike is rich with maritime, military and Native American history...not to be missed.

If you want to make this an adventure an overnight, check out Camp at Cape Disappointment.

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Forest

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Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse Reviews

K F

Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

02/15/23

I’ve been here three times for a reason - absolutely magical place filled with moss, dreamy tree scapes, the ocean and little hidden gems. I recommend 10/10. One of the best places I’ve ever been.

5.0

Sami Smith

Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

10/08/20

We had the beach all to ourself! We made a huge seesaw out of the wood on the beach and played like little kids haha. It’s a must see! We hiked into the beach then up to the lighthouse and stopped and checked out all the history that this along the trail. It’s all pretty amazing

5.0

Clayton Lukens

Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

07/01/20

This is my mom’s favorite area to camp. It’s full of history and fun and I adore it.

5.0

Dina Basarab

Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

03/29/17

Dead Man's Cove is an absolute must for anyone visiting the coast, it feels like you're the only one who has ever found it.

5.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse

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Fort Canby and Cape Disappointment Lighthouse Reviews

Leave No Trace

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Camp at Cape Disappointment

Explore Cape Dissapointment's North Head Lighthouse

Fort Stevens State Park Trails

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