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Beautiful refuge! Really a bit of everything here: trails, campground, views, a sandy trail to a lighthouse, and loads of wildlife to take in as you roam. We didn't stay overnight here, but we did wander much of the grounds and a few trails. We saw deer as we entered, as well as at the start of the trail. Perhaps my favorite deer related encounter however was seeing all the deer tracks on the beach...so cool. We also spotted 2 bald eagles perched on the bluff high above the beach monitoring the waters below. We didn't take the spit all the way to the lighthouse, but did some bird watching along the way as we wandered that direction. It's really a lovely place to hike while taking in beautiful coastal views and spotting animals enjoying their home. Plenty of parking at the main entrance, as well as at various trailheads. Entrance costs $3 or a valid pass.
The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is one of the world's longest sand spits and is a refuge for preserving and breeding native birds. It got its name in 1792 by Captain George Vancouver, who coined the name after a coastline feature that resembled something similar on the south coast of Kent in England. It is now the home of over 250 species of birds, 41 species of land mammals, and 8 species of marine mammals. The entrance fee is $3 daily (for up to 4 adults) and gives access to the 700+ acres for activities like hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and even lighthouse tours. However, some activities like bicycling, kite flying, camping, and pets are not allowed in the refuge. We walked part of the spit which was beautiful and also windy so bring a jacket. You'll see people walking along the spit but it's pretty peaceful and majestic.
We stopped here on a whim on our drive home to Seattle. It was mid-October and the weather was surprisingly sunny and clear. We had our dog with us. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail to the wildlife refuge from the far parking lots but not allowed inside the actual refuge. Still, it was a nice, easy walk with lots of lookouts. We could see Canada across the water! There are restrooms along the way, as well as cans specifically for dog waste (no bags, though I would hope people would have their own on hand). There are also some benches if you want to take a rest stop. There were a few other people with dogs on the trail. It's a relatively narrow trail so I wouldn't recommend it if your dog is reactive towards other dogs or kids.
Dungeness Spit is one of the longest natural spits in the world. In addition to its own natural beauty, it is a great spot for bird watching. There are many places to park. Its an honor system which requires a $3 fee to use the park for day use. They have overnight opportunities too. Bring exact change and enjoy the long walk. Also, it is an easy and level hike except for the last 100 yards down to the beach. The hike along the beach is along the sand with pebbles and driftwood. Go as far as you like. The lighthouse is a few miles out at the end of the spit. The views of mountain, clouds and sea are great. Be sure to consult the tide charts so you don't get caught. And use the facilities at the trailhead before commencing. There is nothing once you get to the beach.
Wow. I love any beach, and the ones here are spectacular. Saw several kinds of birds here. The trails are well worn. There are easy ones, which is what I took. There is a long hike to the Dungeness spit, one of the largest ones in the world. It's a long stretch of land out in the middle of the ocean, and a lighthouse is there. Camping is allowed here. There are picnic tables sprinkled about, and my friend and I had lunch at one while staring at the ocean below. There are also benches throughout. There are caution signs and fences put up to avoid going on the bluffs as they fall apart easily.
This is a seriously cool hike and natural wonder to visit if you're in the area! It contains the largest natural "spit" in the US (Dungeness Spit) at just over 5 miles long! You can walk the entire length of the spit all the way to the lighthouse which is just over 10 miles round trip. For safety, it's recommended to go during low tide bc at high tide you'll have to climb over tons of logs which is hazardous and exhausting. Normally the lighthouse is open for tours but it's closed for now due to Covid. There's plenty of paved parking and also some decent bathrooms at the trailhead. Normally there's a $3 entrance fee per group/family, but the day I visited it was free! Once you enter the trail, you walk through the forest for about 15 minutes then the bay view opens up before you! There is a viewing deck to your right before you head down to the shoreline of the spit. The day I visited, it was so clear you could see Mt Rainier looming over the lighthouse in the distance! So cool! Normally you have a choice of path between a slightly (very slightly) shorter, more paved walk or the "primitive trail", but due to Covid safety measures, it's a one way walk now so you head out to the refuge on the primitive trail and come back on the other trail. Along the walk, there are some informational signs and lots of gorgeous trees and birds. It's a lovely, gentle hike for the most part but it does have a small incline at the end down towards the bay. Once you get down on the beach, you can see the bay and Canada our in front of you and then Sequim behind you! It's a great outing! Highly recommend!
I have been here numerous times but have never taken the time to review. This is a wonderful place to get some exercise, play, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy our beautiful Washington scenery. My kids love playing on the driftwood, I love the scenery, and walking out to the lighthouse (it is a trek, the distance is deceiving). There is a day use fee of 5.00 (BRING CASH) but it is so worth it to keep places like this open and operating for all of us to enjoy. The path to the spit is level and easy to walk. Anyone in any kind of decent shape should have zero problems navigating the trek to the beach. The only downfall is that the garbage cans are ALWAYS full here, as if someone isn't doing their job. It looks "trashy" to see over flowing garbage cans and garbage on the ground. I have been to the park numerous times and I can say it has been like this EVERY time, so I don't think it is just a fluke.
I've never been on a sand spit before 'til we visited the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. While in Sequim we stopped by this wildlife refuge, which was absolutely stunning! Pretty cool that the sand spit here is the longest in the U.S.! We visited in the morning, around 10am and the parking lot was already full. Fortunately, someone was leaving as we arrived, so didn't have to park in the further lot like most people had to. The visitor's center was closed due to COVID-19, but signs indicated where to go through the forested area to visit the sand spit. Restrooms were open, but water fountain was shut off. It's an easy walk through the forest, as it's all flat. For social distancing measures, they have one path for those going to the sand spit and another separate trail for those exiting the sand spit area. Along the path you'll see lush trees and plants and hear birds chirping. Once you get to the sand spit area, there's an observation deck to see the spit from above. This is the only part of the trail that's a hill, as you go down to the sand spit and of course, upwards when you leave. Visit during low tide, and you will be able to walk along the spit and see Port Angeles and Canada from afar. Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, they blocked off much of the trail that leads to the lighthouse, so someday I'd like to visit again when things are back to normal. But it's a very peaceful and beautiful place where you can walk on the sand, dip your toes in the water and collect seashells. I definitely recommend visiting while in Sequim.
Enjoyed our walk here . The sandspit was awesome ... only wish we hard more time as could have walked to the lighthouse. Recommend longer visit if you have not been here before
I will never tire myself with visiting this place. It is always a treat visiting the Refuge. I only wish I could retreat to this spectacular place for months on end. I often frequent the Refuge during the summer months, so visiting during the winter was fun! Seeing snow capped mountains bordered with the fresh ocean is something to witness! We saw several bald eagles which always brings a smile to my face. I will forever support this incredible place and encourage others to do so.
It's a long trail if you would like to touch the lighthouse of the sand spit. Though we only have the kite and sit on the logs to relax for an hour. Lots to see on the spit, the birds, the logs, the sea one side and the bay the other side. Normally you need to pay $3 for the entry. Sometimes it's free. You can also choose to camp in the refuge. Nice campsites.
Very beautiful ! Not much to do but enjoy the scenery which is so worth it! The staff are very friendly and welcoming! They keep the place pretty clean and beautiful. There's a small fee for adults but well worth it to keep the place maintained. The lighthouse is 5 miles out so going with a few little ones it was tricky getting the kids to make it a mile out since there were so much exploration points they wanted to see
This is a pretty unique place as the spit is the longest natural sand spit in the United States, measuring at about 5 miles long. Why isn't there an exact length? Well, it's because the spit is growing about 15 feet a year through the deposition of sediment by the motion of the tidal currents. If you have time, you can hike the entire length of the spit to reach the New Dungeness Lighthouse. There are daily tours available, or even better, you can opt to reserve to live in the lighthouse keeper's house! Don't worry about carrying all of your luggage on the hike - they will drive you in a four-wheel drive transfer vehicle. I've also heard of people boating to the lighthouse instead of land-based transportation. Anyway, this area is very gorgeous and amazing for getting outside. It feels like the sky and the ocean swallow you up in all of the shades of blue. read more
Had such a relaxing visit to Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge! The scenery is gorgeous and super calm. Couldn't hike all the way to the lighthouse this time around, but it's on my list for next time for sure. A couple of quick heads-ups for fellow visitors: * If you don't have a State Park Pass, the entrance fee is $3. Make sure to bring cash, as the card machine was down during our visit. * Free parking is available, and there's a campground right nearby. * Definitely bring a hat, sunglasses, plenty of water, and solid walking shoes. It's a lovely place to unwind! read more
Genuinely impressed by this campground. I wasn't expecting anything amazing but I was blown away. First off it is very clean and well maintained. The camp sites are quite large with lots of trees. Bathrooms and showers are nice. Maybe the pay function of the showers was broken when I visited, but showers were free. You can hear the waves crashing at the beach from the campground. Close drive to Port Angeles. One of my favorite campgrounds in the area. read more
Beautiful refuge! Really a bit of everything here: trails, campground, views, a sandy trail to a lighthouse, and loads of wildlife to take in as you roam. We didn't stay overnight here, but we did wander much of the grounds and a few trails. We saw deer as we entered, as well as at the start of the trail. Perhaps my favorite deer related encounter however was seeing all the deer tracks on the beach...so cool. We also spotted 2 bald eagles perched on the bluff high above the beach monitoring the waters below. We didn't take the spit all the way to the lighthouse, but did some bird watching along the way as we wandered that direction. It's really a lovely place to hike while taking in beautiful coastal views and spotting animals enjoying their home. Plenty of parking at the main entrance, as well as at various trailheads. Entrance costs $3 or a valid pass. read more
The Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge is one of the world's longest sand spits and is a refuge for preserving and breeding native birds. It got its name in 1792 by Captain George Vancouver, who coined the name after a coastline feature that resembled something similar on the south coast of Kent in England. It is now the home of over 250 species of birds, 41 species of land mammals, and 8 species of marine mammals. The entrance fee is $3 daily (for up to 4 adults) and gives access to the 700+ acres for activities like hiking, boating, fishing, wildlife viewing, and even lighthouse tours. However, some activities like bicycling, kite flying, camping, and pets are not allowed in the refuge. We walked part of the spit which was beautiful and also windy so bring a jacket. You'll see people walking along the spit but it's pretty peaceful and majestic. read more
We stopped here on a whim on our drive home to Seattle. It was mid-October and the weather was surprisingly sunny and clear. We had our dog with us. Dogs are allowed on-leash on the trail to the wildlife refuge from the far parking lots but not allowed inside the actual refuge. Still, it was a nice, easy walk with lots of lookouts. We could see Canada across the water! There are restrooms along the way, as well as cans specifically for dog waste (no bags, though I would hope people would have their own on hand). There are also some benches if you want to take a rest stop. There were a few other people with dogs on the trail. It's a relatively narrow trail so I wouldn't recommend it if your dog is reactive towards other dogs or kids. read more
1 year ago
The volunteers are extremely kind and knowledgeable. The place is such a safe haven for all wildlife and you can tell how much love and care is put into conserving the natural areas. read more
5 years ago
Dungeness Spit is one of the longest natural spits in the world. In addition to its own natural beauty, it is a great spot for bird watching. There are many places to park. Its an honor system which requires a $3 fee to use the park for day use. They have overnight opportunities too. Bring exact change and enjoy the long walk. Also, it is an easy and level hike except for the last 100 yards down to the beach. The hike along the beach is along the sand with pebbles and driftwood. Go as far as you like. The lighthouse is a few miles out at the end of the spit. The views of mountain, clouds and sea are great. Be sure to consult the tide charts so you don't get caught. And use the facilities at the trailhead before commencing. There is nothing once you get to the beach. read more
Wow. I love any beach, and the ones here are spectacular. Saw several kinds of birds here. The trails are well worn. There are easy ones, which is what I took. There is a long hike to the Dungeness spit, one of the largest ones in the world. It's a long stretch of land out in the middle of the ocean, and a lighthouse is there. Camping is allowed here. There are picnic tables sprinkled about, and my friend and I had lunch at one while staring at the ocean below. There are also benches throughout. There are caution signs and fences put up to avoid going on the bluffs as they fall apart easily. read more
This is a seriously cool hike and natural wonder to visit if you're in the area! It contains the largest natural "spit" in the US (Dungeness Spit) at just over 5 miles long! You can walk the entire length of the spit all the way to the lighthouse which is just over 10 miles round trip. For safety, it's recommended to go during low tide bc at high tide you'll have to climb over tons of logs which is hazardous and exhausting. Normally the lighthouse is open for tours but it's closed for now due to Covid. There's plenty of paved parking and also some decent bathrooms at the trailhead. Normally there's a $3 entrance fee per group/family, but the day I visited it was free! Once you enter the trail, you walk through the forest for about 15 minutes then the bay view opens up before you! There is a viewing deck to your right before you head down to the shoreline of the spit. The day I visited, it was so clear you could see Mt Rainier looming over the lighthouse in the distance! So cool! Normally you have a choice of path between a slightly (very slightly) shorter, more paved walk or the "primitive trail", but due to Covid safety measures, it's a one way walk now so you head out to the refuge on the primitive trail and come back on the other trail. Along the walk, there are some informational signs and lots of gorgeous trees and birds. It's a lovely, gentle hike for the most part but it does have a small incline at the end down towards the bay. Once you get down on the beach, you can see the bay and Canada our in front of you and then Sequim behind you! It's a great outing! Highly recommend! read more
7 years ago
I have been here numerous times but have never taken the time to review. This is a wonderful place to get some exercise, play, spend time with family and friends, and enjoy our beautiful Washington scenery. My kids love playing on the driftwood, I love the scenery, and walking out to the lighthouse (it is a trek, the distance is deceiving). There is a day use fee of 5.00 (BRING CASH) but it is so worth it to keep places like this open and operating for all of us to enjoy. The path to the spit is level and easy to walk. Anyone in any kind of decent shape should have zero problems navigating the trek to the beach. The only downfall is that the garbage cans are ALWAYS full here, as if someone isn't doing their job. It looks "trashy" to see over flowing garbage cans and garbage on the ground. I have been to the park numerous times and I can say it has been like this EVERY time, so I don't think it is just a fluke. read more
6 years ago
I've never been on a sand spit before 'til we visited the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge. While in Sequim we stopped by this wildlife refuge, which was absolutely stunning! Pretty cool that the sand spit here is the longest in the U.S.! We visited in the morning, around 10am and the parking lot was already full. Fortunately, someone was leaving as we arrived, so didn't have to park in the further lot like most people had to. The visitor's center was closed due to COVID-19, but signs indicated where to go through the forested area to visit the sand spit. Restrooms were open, but water fountain was shut off. It's an easy walk through the forest, as it's all flat. For social distancing measures, they have one path for those going to the sand spit and another separate trail for those exiting the sand spit area. Along the path you'll see lush trees and plants and hear birds chirping. Once you get to the sand spit area, there's an observation deck to see the spit from above. This is the only part of the trail that's a hill, as you go down to the sand spit and of course, upwards when you leave. Visit during low tide, and you will be able to walk along the spit and see Port Angeles and Canada from afar. Unfortunately, because of COVID-19, they blocked off much of the trail that leads to the lighthouse, so someday I'd like to visit again when things are back to normal. But it's a very peaceful and beautiful place where you can walk on the sand, dip your toes in the water and collect seashells. I definitely recommend visiting while in Sequim. read more
6 years ago
Enjoyed our walk here . The sandspit was awesome ... only wish we hard more time as could have walked to the lighthouse. Recommend longer visit if you have not been here before read more
2 years ago
7 years ago
I will never tire myself with visiting this place. It is always a treat visiting the Refuge. I only wish I could retreat to this spectacular place for months on end. I often frequent the Refuge during the summer months, so visiting during the winter was fun! Seeing snow capped mountains bordered with the fresh ocean is something to witness! We saw several bald eagles which always brings a smile to my face. I will forever support this incredible place and encourage others to do so. read more
6 years ago
It's a long trail if you would like to touch the lighthouse of the sand spit. Though we only have the kite and sit on the logs to relax for an hour. Lots to see on the spit, the birds, the logs, the sea one side and the bay the other side. Normally you need to pay $3 for the entry. Sometimes it's free. You can also choose to camp in the refuge. Nice campsites. read more
5 years ago
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11 years ago
Very beautiful ! Not much to do but enjoy the scenery which is so worth it! The staff are very friendly and welcoming! They keep the place pretty clean and beautiful. There's a small fee for adults but well worth it to keep the place maintained. The lighthouse is 5 miles out so going with a few little ones it was tricky getting the kids to make it a mile out since there were so much exploration points they wanted to see read more
Memorial Day Weekend visit was awesome! I initially wanted to hike over at one of the Alpine Lakes but saw the snow reports and decided to save that for summer. This was the perfect alternative. Found a campsite by pure luck, the campground has an amazing location. Our campsite was pretty private (look for #10) and we had our own mini- trail to the bluffs and could hear the waves crashing as we went to sleep. The trail led down to the spit. OMG - you wouldn't think that 10 mile roundtrip walk along the beach would be strenuous but we were both sore for days after the hike! Take snacks, water, and make sure you bring sunscreen because we forgot to. A friendly camper told us that whole trip would take 5.5 hrs and we scoffed but it DID end up taking us 4.5 hrs with a few stops. $3 entry fee which we forgot but luckily there were so many ppl giving extra that the gatekeeper let us through). Lighthouse keepers are visitors themselves, staying in the house in exchange for doing chores and giving tours. Sounds like a fun getaway for older couples, keep that one in the book for twenty more years. read more
Admittedly, I walked through the forest just so I could make it out onto the spit and the water. Are they part of the Wildlife Refuge? It was a nice walk to an overlook, looking down the length of the spit... Surprisingly, it was also wheelchair accessible.. Wheelchair access does end pretty much when the trail opens to the beach, but the spit really is littered with driftwood, probably all the way out to the lighthouse. (I did not get to go all the way, since we had started our walk pretty late in the afternoon and I didn't want to be locked in to the parking area when the sun set.... As beautiful as it all is, the fog was rolling in, and sleeping on driftwood on the beach of a narrow strip of land really doesn't sound that great to me.) For an educational point, there's a little "exhibit" off to the side of the trail that tells you about how long it takes the ocean to break down the random things that get into the water (ie, shoes) as well as talking about some of the things that have washed up due to the tsunami in Japan. To end with... I don't really know what to say... It's beautiful, beautiful, beautiful out there. I would go back. And maybe someday I'll make it out to the lighthouse. read more
Would highly recommend! Beautiful scenery and only a short walk from the parking lot to the spit. Parking is free & could be sparse during peak times so you just have to wait for a spot to open While parking is free, you do have to pay entrance fee to get to the spit area that is roughly 5 miles out to the lighthouse. Fee us $3 via honor system in envelopes, so no change is available nor credit card machines, although day I was there, a "ranger" or docent was pretty much guarding the entrance to make sure you paid, but still had no change. The beach scenery is amazing with lots a huge driftwood logs al along the spit for ample photo opportunities. If you're in the area & have just a couple hours, it's well worth it, even if you only go a short hike out on the spit! read more
This was one of the highlights to the peninsula. I'm not sure why, beyond the fact that I was thinking about dungeness crabs the whole time. It was a beautiful and easy walk with a steep hill down to the spit. And how about that--you get to walk on a spit. Know this--if you park at the main lot there's a booth for paying a visitors fee. But we just randomly stopped way before that and walked through the campground, totally unaware of the existence of this lot or the fee until it was too late. There were no signs where we parked. Weird. read more
First visit here and we already discussed making time to come out and experience it properly. On day 1 we came out and found out no dogs along the spit (makes sense!) but it was warmer out than we felt comfortable with leaving our dogs in the car for. So we walked the bluff trail where dogs are allowed. Our kids loved the easy trail and amazing view down below. We met so many other nice people and dogs along the bluff trail. When little needed to use the restroom we ventured into the wooded campgrounds and used their facilities. Neat loops for camping in quiet areas surrounded by huge beautiful trees. We stopped at the playground and the kids played - that's where we found we were getting eaten by mosquitoes! We were surprised because we had been at Sequim Bay for two days and hadn't seen a single mosquito yet. Headed back to our camp... the next day we went with intentions to walk the spit but we left too late and it was about 3:30pm when we got out there. It's 5 miles to the lighthouse and with kids in tow we were looking at 2-2.5 hours to get out there so we decided just to do what we could this trip. If you can, take the primitive trail, it was still super easy but so much more fun to walk through the trees on soft ground (we walked out on the paved trail & walked back on the primitive trail). There were a few viewpoints along the way and free binoculars to check out the lighthouse and spit. Once we got down to the beach it had turned so incredibly windy and cold we knew our kids wouldn't last long. The kids loved playing in the huge pieces of driftwood and beautiful flat rocks. I felt at peace knowing rocks and sticks are not allowed to come back home with you (haha) - we have a rock and stick collection bigger than anyone would ever need. It was a fun place to visit, we only spent an hour total there and I know we could easily spend more than half a day if we headed out earlier and packed a picnic lunch. I really want to see the 1857 lighthouse and say we walked all the way out and back one day. Also rangers at the beginning of trail with the maps and artifacts were all incredibly friendly and helpful. Wonderful place! read more
10 years ago
GORGEOUS! This is a quiet little area with amazing views and beautiful hike. The park rangers were helpful and knowledgeable AND we saw seals! My kids (easterners) had a blast building driftwood shanties and climbing all around. My only regret is not walking to the lighthouse, but with 3 little ones it was not in the cards. Next time! read more
Hiking the Dungeness Spit has been on my list for a while now. It is long, loooong. 5.5 miles to the lighthouse at the tip, and what goes out to the tip must come back. I am in reasonable shape. I do Zumba and jog the occasional 5k, so I figured this would be a slight challenge, but no problem. And for the most part, that was true, but for the unfortunate choice of footwear I made. (Stupid, ill-fitting hiking boots). You should definitely choose comfortable, waterproof boots of the hiking variety, but not too heavy or you'll regret it around mile #7. It is incredibly rocky and uneven. At low tide, there's a rocky beach to walk on, lots of sand, and seaweed to dodge. At high tide, there are larger boulders and plenty of driftwood to climb (or sit on for a quick respite.) Also, be prepared for sun. Lots of sun! Other than the delightful half mile trail through the wooded area that leads down to the beach, the rest of the 11-mile round trip leaves you exposed to a very harsh sun. I didn't expect to get sunburned on my hand or on the back of my legs but I did. Hats and sunglasses are also a must, as is bottled water (you can refill it at the Lighthouse). I'd also recommend toilet paper because there's only a restroom at the trailhead and at the Lighthouse. Speaking of the Lighthouse, if you arrive before 4pm, you will be greeted by lovely volunteers who stay on the property for a week at a time to maintain all of the buildings and to give tours. We met about six people there who were all volunteering. Some of them were picking up trash, while others gave the tour. They were very gregarious and enthusiastic. One of their wives baked cookies to be handed out to all visitors who signed the guestbook. There were quite a few birds and nests around the property, which the guides were happy to point out. They also escorted us to the top of the lighthouse so we could look out at the panoramic view. There are picnic tables and grass areas, and they encourage you to take as long as you need to rest. Definitely take them up on it because the trek back is twice as hard. The entrance to the Spit is $3, cash only, no change available. It is open dawn to dusk and has camping facilities. All of the volunteer staff are friendly and happy to tell you everything about the area and more. You can certainly come here just to see the beach and wander around a little bit. The hike all the way to the lighthouse is definitely for the more adventurous. I am still sore the next day but thrilled that I did it and amazed at the beauty so close by. read more
8 years ago
Took a morning walk here ... it was stunning in its beauty and very quiet, making for a delightful hike. There's something magical about spots where the forest meets the sea, and this is one. read more
9 years ago
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Was heading to la push to check out the beaches and made a little detour here. This place was beautiful. The people who work here are VERY friendly. You need $3 and I don't carry cash with me so I asked a older man that worked here and said you can just pay whenever it's convenient for us. I was very happy about that and paid on my way out after getting cash. It's just a short walk to the Spit and once you get there it's just breath taking. I wanted to go to the lighthouse with my girlfriend but I had no idea it's a 5 mike walk just to get there and 5 back. The people who work here are very informative and told me the best times to do it and all sorts of other great information to have. If you have the time and effort a hike to the lighthouse would be totally worth it! read more
21 years ago
One of my favorite day trips is to the Dungeness spit. From the parking lot (there is a $3 fee) you have to hike down to it about a 1/2 mile. The spit extends out into the Pacific Ocean 5 miles and is truely a great experiance. At the very tip there is a lighthouse, and admitidly, I have never walked all the way down there. The waves crash up on the sandy beach and there is tons of driftwood to play on....great family time! read more
9 years ago
Loved this park! Plenty of free parking for this lovely spot. $6 entrance fee for a lovely walk (2 trails: main & primitive) toward a view of the spit below, with beautiful trees & flowers. Spots to sit & soak up the view, & a walking trail down to the coast. You can also walk the 6 miles (I think) out to the lighthouse at the end of the spit! read more
11 years ago
First I would like to say that the Dungeness Spit just has to be one of my favorite places in the entire world. Simply astonishing. It is the largest natural "spit" (sand bar) in the U.S. Amazingly, it is growing by 13 feet every year. It is 5.5 miles long so if you hike out to the lighthouse at the tip and then back you're looking at an 11 mile trip. The first half mile of the spit is crawling with tourists (like us), but if you persevere and walk out just a bit further you will feel like you are on a remote, private beach. I found myself thinking of the Tom Hanks movie " Castaway" a few times as you will be all alone at times during the last 5 miles to the lighthouse. It was so serene and relaxing. My two daughters and I finally arrived at the lighthouse and were greeted by very friendly volunteers who filled us in on the history of the lighthouse. We packed sandwiches and had our lunch at picnic tables on a beautiful lawn that is fed by an artesian well. Beware, you must carry out your own trash. You can not dispose of it at the lighthouse. We enjoyed touring and learning about the history of the facility. Then there was the trip back when we realized we had left rather late from the lighthouse as high tide was in 45 minutes. Yikes! The tide was beginning to roll in as we headed back. Midway through our return trip the width of the spit had been so reduced we were force to crawl our way through the drift wood deposits in the middle of what remained of the spit to avoid the crashing waves, which were coming too close for comfort. It significantly slowed us down. On the upside, it felt harrowing and adventurous! Boy were we happy to return safe and sound in one piece on the other side. TIPS: Make sure you have exactly $3 in CASH to purchase your permit to be out on the spit. Annoyingly, they only accept cash and there is no change. Wear comfortable shoes, you will need them and expect the walk to take as much as 2 hours each way as its rough walking on the rocks and sand. Enjoy! read more
7 years ago
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More info about Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
Straight Of Juan De Fuca
Sequim, WA 98382
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(360) 457-8451
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Ask the Community - Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
Hi just checking in the website says no dogs allowed but on Yelp it says dogs allowed, which is it?
So, as with all things in life, two things can be equally true: dogs ARE allowed in the recreation (i.e., camping) areas--but not the Refuge itself, savvy?
