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Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco | Map and Routes

Kid-friendly · Beach · Lake

5 (76 ratings)

Located in Ilwaco, Cape Disappointment State Park offers a breathtaking natural setting for walkers and hikers to explore. With 2023.1 acres of diverse landscapes, this park provides an array of ...

Located in Ilwaco, Cape Disappointment State Park offers a breathtaking natural setting for walkers and hikers to explore. With 2023.1 acres of diverse landscapes, this park provides an array of trails and routes to suit every level of activity. Whether you're seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the park's numerous options ensure a fulfilling outdoor experience. From the stunning North Head Trail to the serene Coastal Forest Loop Trail, there's a route for everyone to enjoy. Visitors can also download Pacer Pedometer for detailed information on the park's routes and trail lengths, ensuring a well-prepared and enjoyable walking or hiking adventure. For those seeking a more immersive experience, Cape Disappointment State Park boasts a variety of trails that offer stunning views and opportunities to connect with nature. The Discovery Trail, spanning 2.2 miles, provides an enriching journey through the park's scenic landscapes, while the Cape Disappointment Trail offers a shorter but equally rewarding 0.5-mile hike. The park's extensive trail network, combined with its picturesque coastal surroundings, makes it an ideal destination for walkers and hikers looking to explore the great outdoors. With an emphasis on natural beauty and tranquility, visitors can easily immerse themselves in the park's peaceful ambiance while staying active and engaged. Cape Disappointment State Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a revitalizing walking or hiking experience. Whether you're drawn to the allure of the Belleview Park Road or the charm of the McKenzie Head Trail, the park's diverse routes cater to a wide range of preferences and abilities. As you embark on your outdoor adventure, take advantage of the Pacer Pedometer app for valuable insights into the park's routes and estimated times, ensuring a well-informed and enjoyable journey. With its captivating natural scenery and extensive trail options, Cape Disappointment State Park invites walkers and hikers to indulge in the beauty of the great outdoors while engaging in invigorating physical activity.

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Walking and Hiking in Cape Disappointment State Park

When visiting Ilwaco, one of the must-visit destinations for walkers and hikers is Cape Disappointment State Park. This stunning park offers a myriad of walking and hiking opportunities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscape and breathtaking views, Cape Disappointment State Park is the ideal location ...

When visiting Ilwaco, one of the must-visit destinations for walkers and hikers is Cape Disappointment State Park. This stunning park offers a myriad of walking and hiking opportunities, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With its diverse landscape and breathtaking views, Cape Disappointment State Park is the ideal location for those seeking an active and adventurous experience. The park's essential amenities include multiple parking lots, restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly facilities, ensuring convenience and accessibility for all visitors. Additionally, the park features a leisure playground, picnic sites, and various viewpoints, including the Beards Hollow Overlook, offering unparalleled natural beauty. For those interested in history, the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center provides a fascinating insight into the area's past. Moreover, the park offers shelters, showers, and bicycle parking, catering to the needs of all outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're a casual walker or a seasoned hiker, Cape Disappointment State Park in Ilwaco is the ultimate destination for an enriching and fulfilling outdoor experience.

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Other Info about Cape Disappointment State Park

Websitehttps://parks.state.wa.us/486/Cape-Disappointment

Essential Amenities in Cape Disappointment State Park

phonePlayground
phonePicnic Site
phoneWheelchair friendly
phoneRestroom
phoneParking lot

Accessibility in Cape Disappointment State Park

phoneWheelchair friendly

Things to See in Cape Disappointment State Park

Viewpoint

Beards Hollow Overlook

Museum

Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center

Other Amenities in Cape Disappointment State Park

Shelter

Bicycle parking

Shower

Best Walking Routes in Cape Disappointment State Park

#1 - Cape Disappointment State Park - North Head Trail
2
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m

Cape Disappointment State Park - North Head Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 314.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2 - Cape Disappointment Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m

Cape Disappointment Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 16.4 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3 - Discovery Trail
1
Length: 2.2 milesEst. Time: 38m

Discovery Trail is a 2.2 mile (5,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 396.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

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Reviews of Cape Disappointment State Park

5/5
76 ratings
Olga KardanovaMay 27, 2024
5
HeatherOct 9, 2021
5
twonhoffSep 22, 2020
5
See All Reviews
See All Reviews

Cape Disappointment State Park Leaderboard

RankingCheck-ins
thoryama
12
Sara
7
Spike
5
4mgstiver
5
5Julie
3
6Jerry
3
7
2
8Arlen
2
922royo
2
10Tambs
2
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Nearby Parks
Chinook Wildlife Area
Fort Columbia State Park
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
Carruthers Memorial Park
Loomis Lake State Park
Sunset Sands Comm. Assoc. (Private)
Warrenton City Park
Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
Teal Slough Natural Resources Conservation Area

FAQs About Cape Disappointment State Park

Where is the best place to walk in Cape Disappointment State Park?

The best place to walk in Cape Disappointment State Park is the North Head Trail, which is rated 4.5 and spans 1.4 miles. It offers stunning views and is highly recommended by the Pacer community.

How many routes are in Cape Disappointment State Park?

Cape Disappointment State Park offers a variety of walking routes, with a total of 9 different trails to explore. These trails cater to various fitness levels and preferences.

Which is the longest route in Cape Disappointment State Park?

The longest route in Cape Disappointment State Park is the Discovery Trail, which spans 2.2 miles. This trail provides a longer, more immersive walking experience with diverse scenery and is well-reviewed by the Pacer community.

Are there facilities or amenities for walkers/hikers in Cape Disappointment State Park?

Yes, there are several essential amenities for walkers and hikers in Cape Disappointment State Park, including multiple parking lots, restrooms, wheelchair-friendly facilities, and picnic sites.

How accessible is Cape Disappointment State Park?

Cape Disappointment State Park is wheelchair-friendly, ensuring accessibility for individuals with mobility challenges.

What kind of sports can I do in Cape Disappointment State Park?

In addition to walking and hiking, visitors to Cape Disappointment State Park can also enjoy sports such as cycling, as there are bicycle parking facilities available.

What is the best season to walk in Cape Disappointment State Park?

The best season to walk in Cape Disappointment State Park is typically late spring to early fall. During this time, the weather is milder, and the park's flora and fauna are at their peak.

What are the typical weather conditions to prepare for in Cape Disappointment State Park?

Visitors to Cape Disappointment State Park should prepare for a maritime climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and mild, dry summers. It's important to pack layers and rain gear, as the weather can change quickly.

What kind of wildlife might you encounter in Cape Disappointment State Park?

In Cape Disappointment State Park, visitors may encounter a variety of wildlife, including deer, bald eagles, shorebirds, and marine life such as seals and sea lions. It's important to respect wildlife and observe from a safe distance.

Last updated: Mar 1, 2025

Parks Near Cape Disappointment State Park

walking in Chinook Wildlife Area map in Chinook
Chinook Wildlife Area
walking in Fort Columbia State Park map in Chinook
Fort Columbia State Park
walking in Lewis and Clark National Historical Park map in Warrenton
Lewis and Clark National Historical Park
walking in Carruthers Memorial Park map in Warrenton
Carruthers Memorial Park
Loomis Lake State Park
Sunset Sands Comm. Assoc. (Private)
Warrenton City Park
Willapa National Wildlife Refuge
Teal Slough Natural Resources Conservation Area

Latest Check-ins at Cape Disappointment State Park

SaraFeb 9, 2025
Feb 9, 2025Walking
PacerPalDec 30, 2024
Dec 30, 2024Walking
Nov 15, 2024
Nov 15, 2024Walking
JulieSep 14, 2024
Sep 14, 2024Walking
CourtneyJun 18, 2024
Jun 18, 2024Walking
thoryamaMay 23, 2024
May 23, 2024Walking
thoryamaMay 9, 2024
May 9, 2024Walking
thoryamaMar 20, 2024
Mar 20, 2024Walking
JocelynMay 3, 2023
May 3, 2023Walking
SaraMar 9, 2024
Mar 9, 2024Walking
*Latest check-in only shows the last 10 users. Only public activities are eligible. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.

Total Check-ins at Cape Disappointment State Park

RankingCheck-ins
thoryama
12
Sara
7
Spike
5
4mgstiver
5
5Julie
3
6Jerry
3
7
2
8Arlen
2
922royo
2
10Tambs
2
*Leaderboard only shows top 10 users. Only public activities are eligible for leaderboards. For any one park, a user can only check-in a maximum of once per day.
Best Walking Routes in Cape Disappointment State Park
#1- Cape Disappointment State Park - North Head Trail
2
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 24m

Cape Disappointment State Park - North Head Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 314.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#2- Cape Disappointment Trail
1
Length: 0.5 milesEst. Time: 8m

Cape Disappointment Trail is a 0.5 mile (1,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 16.4 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#3- Discovery Trail
1
Length: 2.2 milesEst. Time: 38m

Discovery Trail is a 2.2 mile (5,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 396.9 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#4- Cape Disappointment State Park
1
Length: 1 milesEst. Time: 17m

Cape Disappointment State Park is a 1 mile (2,500-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#5- Cape Disappointment State Park - Belleview Park Road
1
Length: 2 milesEst. Time: 34m

Cape Disappointment State Park - Belleview Park Road is a 2 mile (4,500-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington, USA. This route has an elevation gain of about 351 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#6- Bell's View Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m

Bell's View Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#7- McKenzie Head Trail
1
Length: 0.3 milesEst. Time: 4m

McKenzie Head Trail is a 0.3 mile (500-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 0 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#8- North Head Trail
1
Length: 1.4 milesEst. Time: 23m

North Head Trail is a 1.4 mile (3,000-step) route located near Ilwaco, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 127.9 ft and is rated as easy. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

#9- Coastal Forest Loop Trail
1
Length: 0.9 milesEst. Time: 16m

Coastal Forest Loop Trail is a 0.9 mile (2,000-step) route located near Long Beach, Washington. This route has an elevation gain of about 160.7 ft and is rated as medium. Find the best walking trails near you in Pacer App.

Reviews of Cape Disappointment State Park

Olga KardanovaMay 27, 2024
5
HeatherOct 9, 2021
5
twonhoffSep 22, 2020
5
5/5
76 ratings
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