Why the Dungeness Spit Trail is the Ultimate Beach Hike
Enjoy long walks on the beach? Then the Dungeness Spit Trail is a Washington hike that you must consider!
2024 First Timer’s Guide to the Dungeness Spit Trail
Jetting miles out into the salty Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Dungeness Spit Trail proves to be a gem along highway 101.
You’ll find the trailhead on the Northern Olympic Peninusla. Specifically, it is located near Sequim (the small town known far and wide for its lavender fields).
Keep reading for everything you need to know to plan your adventure!
What makes this hike unique?
Located in the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, the Dungeness Spit Trail is full of fascinating historic and natural elements such as:
- Spanning one of the biggest sand spits in the world
- The New Dungeness Lighthouse / Light Station (the destination of your hike!)
- Museum + educational opportunities inside the lighthouse
- 360 degree views from the top of the lighthouse
- Abundant wildlife: Bald eagles, shorebirds, harbor seals
- Olympic Mountains
- Ship watching along the Strait of Juan de Fuca
How to Get to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge
As someone who has lived my entire life in Washington State, I am not exaggerating when I say that journeying out the Olympic Peninsula is always a joy.
From Seattle, you have two options. First, opt to take the Edmonds-Kingston ferry. This route covers far less miles (75 miles versus 128 miles) but is highly dependent on the ferry schedule. In addition, it’s worth considering the cost. WSDOT’s online calculator is super helpful so you aren’t suprised at the terminal. For example, at the time of writing, the cost for a couple boarding with a standard size car is around $55 round trip.
Alternatively, you can drive South on I-5 towards Tacoma. Here, cross the Tacoma Narrow Bridge and continue on Highway 16 through the Kitsap Peninsula. Either way, both routes meet up in Port Gamble.
What to Expect While Hiking the Dungeness Spit Trail
Conditions to Check Beforehand
Weather and Tides
As with any hike, it’s wise to be aware of the predicted weather conditions. In particular, keep an eye out for high winds — which, if present, will make your trek more challenging.
Additionally, it is an absolute must to check tide charts. In order to hike the Dungeness Spit Trail, plan on getting started a little before the lowest tide. This is because the first section of the hike is in a forest and it takes a few minutes to get down to the beach.
When hiked at low tide, you’ll be walking on mostly sandy beach the entire time. However, if you don’t time your visit correctly at low tide, then you will have to scramble over drift logs. This can be dangerous, and takes way longer! So, please do not do this.
Finally, you can check the live webcam for a preview of current conditions as well as recent trip reports.
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Time
Another factor to consider is time. Most recommend allocating 5 hours for your trip to complete the Dungeness Spit Trail. In my experience, I found this to be accurate. My recommendation is to allow at least 5 hours.
Lastly, the Dungeness Recreation Area is open everyday between sunrise and a half hour before sunset. This is good to know because the road has gates that limit access to the parking lot. So, this may not be the best spot for catching sunrise or sunset.
Arriving at the Trailhead
At the parking lot, be sure to either display appropriate pass (like America the Beautiful) or pay the $3 day use fee. This entrance fee covers a family or a group of up to 4 individuals and can be purchased in-person.
Also, you’ll have the opportunity to use the bathroom. I highly recommend this, as your next bathroom break will be at the lighthouse!
Since this is a national wildlife refuge, plan ahead to leave the pups at home. Every time we visit, we see dog owners turn around to leave because they didn’t research the rules in advance. If you’re looking for a dog-friendly place to walk nearby, try the Olympic Discovery Trail. In particular, it’s lovely to begin from the Dungeness River Nature Center. (This is close by, though not in the same park).
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Hiking the Dungeness Spit Trail
While this is technically a walk on the beach, don’t be fooled: it is a long walk. Each way, prepare to log 5.5 miles. In total, the hike is 11 miles. That being said, there is hardly any elevation change. (~150′ feet gain at the very end of the hike)
Given the long distance, it is important to wear supportive shoes. For me, the only way my feet aren’t tired after a trails of this length is to add insoles to my shoes. While waterproof shoes aren’t necessary, they may be helpful for sneaker waves.
At the start of the hike, you’ll meander on a paved path through the forest. Notice how windswept the trees are — they must be hardy to live here!
Before descending down to the beach, stop at the lookout for a view of the spit. If you look on the very far end, you’ll see the New Dungeness Light Station. (It’ll be awhile before it comes into view again, so soak it in!)
Once on the beach, you’ll veer right to begin hiking the Dungeness Spit Trail. Please note that hikers must stay on the left, as the shore to the right (on the side of Dungeness Harbor) serves as protected lands for wildlife.
Bestie Tip: Download or screenshot this refuge map!
Explore the New Dungeness Lighthouse
Besides enjoying a beach day, hikers who complete the Dungeness Spit Trail are treated to the lovely light station (Yes, hiking is the only way to access the lighthouse!)
As a National Historic Site, the New Dungeness Lighthouse is well-known for serving as the 1st ever U.S. lighthouse on the Strait of Juan de Fuca.
Today, the lighthouse is cared for and operated by volunteer keepers. Summer visits are ideal because the lighthouse is open daily to the public between 9am and 5pm.
Inside, check out the museum to learn about local indigenous history, lighthouse technology, and the life of a lighthouse keeper. Typically, one of the keepers will be posted at the top. To get there, climb 74 stairs up. This is a wonderful photo spot!
Additionally, enjoy amenities like a bathroom and picnic tables.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to to hike the Dungeness Spit?
Allocate between 5 and 5.5 hours to hike the Dungeness Spit Trail. This includes time for the 11 mile hike and exploring the lighthouse.
How much does it cost to go to the Dungeness Spit Trail?
If you do not have one of the accepted passes, the daily entrance fee is $3 per family or group of up to 4 individuals.
What are some good hiking trails in the Olympic Peninsula?
Without a doubt, the Dungeness Spit Trail is an epic hike on the Olympic Peninsula! You’ll get epic views, historic sites, and awesome wildlife watching.
Can you hike Dungeness Spit at high tide?
No, it is not recommended to hike the trail at low tide. This is because at high tide only the highest part of the beach is exposed. This part is covered in driftwood, which is tricky (and risky) to walk across.
Can you see Canada from Dungeness Spit?
Yes, if you look across the Strait of Juan de Fuca you can easily see Canada in the distance on a clear day.
Can you see whales from Dungeness Spit?
Since the Strait of Juan de Fuca connects the Puget Sound / Salish Sea with the Pacific Ocean, whales do travel in this body of water. That being said, the water is often quite rough. This can make it hard to spot them.
Is Dungeness Spit worth it?
If you are looking for a unique place to hike in Washington, then the Dungeness Spit Trail checks all the boxes! It’s an ideal summer hike with water, mountain, and wildlife views. Plus, you can learn about history at the lighthouse.
This post was all about the Dungeness Spit Trail.