
Field trip: Spring Hiking Series: Olympic River Rambler
Spring Hiking Series: April Hikes - Dungeness Spit
*** Trip initially open to Spring Hiking Students. Trip will open for registration to all Mountaineers 7 to 10 days prior to the hike date. ***
- Sat, Apr 26, 2025
- Tacoma Hiking & Backpacking Committee
- Day Hiking
- Adults
- Moderate
- Moderate
- Mileage: 11.0 mi
- Elevation Gain: 130 ft
- Pace: 2.2MPH
- 2 (6 capacity)
- FULL (2 capacity)
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
This is an awesome hike out to the historic Dungeness Lighthouse along the Dungeness Spit. It is a total of 11 miles (5.5 out and 5.5 back). We will hike at a pace of about 2.2mph, taking time to enjoy the scenery and shore birds. Except for the first half mile from the parking lot, the entire hike is on sand (hiking boots or good hiking shoes are still highly recommended). While there is minimal elevation gain or loss, the spit is sloped slightly to the water and sand will require a little more effort than a groomed trail. I listed it as moderate only because of the length and walking on sand.
Once out at the lighthouse, we will take a 30-45 minute break so that we can enjoy lunch at the picnic tables and/or take a quick tour of the lighthouse and grounds.
I will likely be car camping at the Dungeness Recreation Area (or staying at a hotel in Sequim) the night before. There are 24 first come, first served sites or you can reserve a site ahead at Dungeness Recreation Area - Online Reservations - Site Details. The campground has nice bathrooms, potable water and showers!
We will meet at 8:30am and plan to be on the trail by 8:45am. We will meet at the large informational kiosk at the trailhead where you can pay your entrance fee. The fee is $3 per group (which includes up to 4 people). There are envelopes for cash! (Make your way to the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge, and Dungeness Recreation Area turn-off. Continue through the County park and campground. The trailhead is about one mile down this road. Please park at the large paved parking area at the trailhead.)
Required Equipment
10 Essentials and $3 cash for the entry fee.