A Day Trip to Cape Flattery: Tips and Highlights for Visitors

I spent my first year or so living in Washington state with a serious dedication to exploring the coastal areas. There’s something special about moving from a landlocked state to one along the ocean. Every viewpoint of the Pacific brings me a joy that I wasn’t able to find in Utah. Plus, the possibility of seeing creatures in the ocean keeps me coming back on a regular basis. My commitment to spending time near the ocean led me to visiting Cape Flattery. This viewpoint is on the northwestern most tip of Washington state and offers the most amazing views of the pacific. In this guide i’ll be sharing my experience visiting Cape Flattery as well as important tips for your adventures.

Overview

Cape Flattery sits on the very tip of Washington state. In fact, when you’re at the lookout here you can easily see Canada’s Vancouver island! This is a great spot to visit if you’re seeking views of the pacific coast and some amazing sea stacks. The hiking trail weaves through a mossy forest and then leads you out to the cliffs at the end of the trail. At the lookouts, you’ll see expanding views of the ocean. You’ll also get to look down into the calm water below and look for seals, or if you’re lucky, other marine animals.

Getting to Cape Flattery

To get to Cape Flattery from Seattle, follow these detailed directions. Cape Flattery is located on the Makah Reservation in the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Tatoosh Island.

Directions from Seattle to Cape Flattery:

Google Maps directions to Cape Flattery

1. Start in Seattle:
   • Head west on I-90 W toward the I-5 N exit.
   • Take exit 2C for I-5 N toward Vancouver B.C.
2. Follow I-5 N:
   • Stay on I-5 N for about 5 miles.
   • Take exit 172 for WA-522 E toward Bothell/Woodinville.
3. Take WA-104 W:
   • Continue on WA-522 E for about 2 miles.
   • Take the exit toward WA-104 W.
   • Continue on WA-104 W and cross the Hood Canal Bridge.
4. Drive to Port Angeles:
   • Follow WA-104 W for about 23 miles.
   • Merge onto US-101 W via the ramp to Port Angeles.
   • Continue on US-101 W for about 40 miles until you reach Port Angeles.
5. Continue on US-101 W:
   • From Port Angeles, continue west on US-101 W for about 5 miles.
   • Turn right onto WA-112 W/Strait of Juan de Fuca Highway.
6. Follow WA-112 W:
   • Stay on WA-112 W for approximately 64 miles.
   • Turn right onto Cape Flattery Road in Neah Bay.
7. Reach Cape Flattery Trailhead:
   • Follow Cape Flattery Road for about 7.5 miles until you reach the trailhead parking area.

Tribal Recreation Pass:

To access Cape Flattery and other recreational sites on the Makah Reservation, you will need to purchase a Makah Recreation Pass. The pass is required for each vehicle and can be obtained at several locations in Neah Bay:

• Makah Marina
• Makah Tribal Center
• The Washburn General Store

Cost and Validity:

• The pass costs $20 (as of 2024) and is valid for the calendar year.
• The revenue from the pass supports the Makah Tribe’s efforts in maintaining and preserving their lands and cultural sites.

Tips for Visiting Cape Flattery

• Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions. It can be windy and rainy, even in summer.
• Trail: The trail to Cape Flattery is about 0.75 miles long and is relatively easy, but parts can be muddy and uneven.
• Facilities: There are no facilities at the trailhead or along the trail, so plan accordingly.

The Cape Flattery Hiking Trail

Overview of the trail

Mileage: The trail is approximately 1.5 miles round trip (0.75 miles each way).

Elevation Gain: The trail has minimal elevation gain, making it a relatively easy hike for most visitors.

Parking Information:

• There is a designated parking area at the trailhead.
• A Makah Recreation Pass is required to park at the trailhead and access the trail. The pass can be purchased for $20 at various locations in Neah Bay, such as the Makah Marina, Makah Tribal Center, and the Washburn General Store. The pass is valid for the entire calendar year.

Dog Policy: Dogs are not allowed on the Cape Flattery Trail. This policy helps protect the natural environment and wildlife in the area.