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When it comes to hikes in the Pacific Northwest, many people imagine grueling treks with steep inclines, rocky and rugged terrain, and mountains to scale. Alternatively, deep-wood trails leading to remote beaches are the alternative, except in the case of the Cape Flattery Trail.
While this trail is located on Washington's Olympic Peninsula, it's easier than many hikers realize in terms of its distance. Whereas many trails in this area are challenging and recommended for experienced hikers, the Cape Flattery Trail offers a hike that's less than two miles and includes some of the best scenic views in the Pacific Northwest.
Getting To The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail
It's worth noting that Cape Flattery is located on the Olympic Peninsula which means the process of getting there involves going through the remote territory. Neah Bay, where the trail begins, is located just off Highway 112, and hikers can take either this or Highway 101 on the way back to complete the peninsula loop.
With that being said, Highway 112 is incredibly scenic all on its own. It's definitely worth pulling over at one of its overlooks in order to take in the views of the Clallam Bay, through Hoko River State Park, and Shipwreck Point. Neah Bay is also home to a scenic point - Neah Bay Scenic View Point - where travelers can take a moment to trek out into the bay and appreciate the expansive waterfront views that exist around them.
The Cape Flattery hike is located on Makah Tribal Land, so it's important to be respectful of that and its indigenous people who call the land their home. For those wishing to learn more about the Makah Tribe and its history, visitors can stop at the Makah Museum which is home to hundreds of ancient artifacts and educational exhibits.
After entering the town of Neah Bay, the signs for Cape Flattery Road will take hikers roughly seven miles down to the parking lot where the trailhead for the Cape Flattery hike begins. The parking lot is fairly roomy, and this is where hikers can stop to use the restrooms before setting out on their trek.
What To Expect On The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail
Of course, stunning views of the PNW are to be expected on any high-rated trail but the views on the Cape Flattery trail are truly exceptional. This hike has it all from lush forested scenery to stunning seaside views, and all with less than two miles to trek.
- Total Distance: 1.2 miles
- Type of Trail: Out-and-back
- Total Elevation Gain: 229 feet
- Average Time Hike: ~40 minutes or less
- Difficulty: Easy
The Cape Flattery hike is open year-round and offers extensive views of the northwestern-most point of the continental U.S., where the Strait of Juan de Fuca intersects with the Pacific Ocean. There, hikers will be privy to sights such as scenic seaside coves, dramatic cliffs, headlands, and sea stacks. Those interested in seeing native marine species during their hike can watch whales, sea lions, and seabirds, such as Puffins and guillemots, depending on the time of the year they're hiking.
At the three-quarter-mile mark, hikers will be able to see the Cape Flattery lighthouse, as well, which is on Tatoosh Island.
Wildlife-Spotting & Nature On The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail
Those looking to catch a glimpse at two of the region's most popular marine animals - whales and sea lions - are in luck! Sea lions are known to nest and hang out on the sea coves that are just off the shore and are easily spotted from the trail's overlooks. Additionally, whales can be seen out further, and it's recommended that binoculars be used in order to spot them more easily in the water.
Various flora can be found throughout this beautiful, but short, hiking trail, as well. On the way, hikers will pass Western Hemlocks, Red Alders, and Sitka Spruce Trees. To paint an even more scenic picture, this thick forest is usually covered with a layer of bright green moss with low-lying greenery that makes it feel more like a fairy tale setting than a hike through the woods. The trail itself is a combination of dirt and elevated boardwalks, so it's not too challenging to navigate, and the trail is wide enough that hikers can take their time and stop for breaks if needed.
Anyone visiting the Olympic Peninsula should take the time to appreciate the nature that makes this destination what it is. The Cape Flattery hike is short enough that it can easily be fit into one day, and it can easily become part of a day trip spent in this scenic Washington town.