Unlike its name, Cape Disappointment is anything but. Just outside Ilwaco and a part of the Long Beach Peninsula, it has a long military history and hiking trails that lead to two lighthouses. From the first mapping in 1775 to Lewis and Clark ending their 18-month journey in 1805, Cape Disappointment remains an important part of America’s beginning.
When discovering it for yourself, be sure to take in the history at the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center. There you will learn about their experience when navigating the Columbia River and the mark they left on the cape since their expedition.
After visiting the Center, you can go to North Head Lighthouse, with views of the Pacific Ocean, the Columbia River and the North Oregon Coast across the river. The lighthouse is more than just a tourist destination, the location is still used today as a mark of navigation by sailors.
At the end of the day, Cape Disappointment offers yurts that are walking distance from the beach. Inside the heated spaces, there are bunks and futons to house up to six people. In addition to the yurts, there is an accessible, communal deck with a sitting area and a fire pit.
When visiting Cape Disappointment, you can choose your own adventure. You won’t be disappointed. For more information go to parks.state.wa.us/425/Cape-Disappointment-State-Park, and to visit Long Beach go to visitlongbeachpeninsula.com.
