Cape Flattery Trail

The Cape Flattery Trail, favorite destination for eco-tourists and hikers, is located on the tip of the Olympic Peninsula and is one of the most beautiful places on the Makah Indian Reservation.

Just 2 hours away from the city of Port Angeles, Washington, Cape Flattery is well worth the drive. The 3/4 mile trail consists of boardwalk, stone and gravel steps. There are 4 observation decks which offer breath taking views of the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary and Tatoosh Island.

The trail requires moderate exertion to descend and climb its slopes and stairs. This is a Makah Wilderness Area, so please stay on the trail and supervise children closely. Please do not build fires or camp overnight. Feel free to picnic at the tables by the observation decks, but remember, since there are no garbage receptacles, please pack out your litter.

There is no admission cost to hike the trail, but you do need to purchase a Recreation Permit upon entering the reservation. These can be purchased at the Makah Marina, Washburn's General Store, Makah Tribal Center, Makah Museum, Neah Bay Charter & Tackle, Makah Fuel Co. and the Makah Smoke shop. They Cost $10 per car and are valid for the calendar year in which they are purchased.

Click here to view aerial photos of our area! (Click on map to zoom in)

 

Photos and Text were provided by the Makah Cultural and Research Center
and the Washington State Historical Society and are subject to copyright protection.

 

DIRECTIONS:

Take the Edmonds ferry to Kingston. Cross the Hood Canal Bridge. Follow Highway 101 through Port Angeles - five miles past Port Angeles, veer right to Highway 12, follow 112 for about 60 miles to Neah Bay. When entering Neah Bay you will pass the US Coast Guard which is on the left side of the road across from the Makah Museum . Travel 1 1/2 miles (follow the road with the yellow stripe). Right past the Senior Citizen's Building, curve left, where you see the IHS Clinic on your right. Follow the curve to the right and then to the left (follow the signs to Cape Flattery). Go approx. 2 1/2miles to the Makah Tribal Center on the right. If you have not already bought your recreational use permit, you may do so at the Tribal Center. Follow the road around the Tribal Center and after passing the old air force base housing, you will reach a gravel road (1/4 mile). Continue on the gravel road for approx. 4 miles. At the end of the 4 miles, you will see a sign marking the Cape Trail. Stay to the LEFT and travel a short distance. It is advised to lock your vehicle with your recreational use permit displayed either on your dashboard or off mirror. For hiking, take the left trail at the forked path. The walk is approx. 20-30 minutes.

Hike is not recommended for weak ankles, knees, or backs.