Cape Disappointment State Park

Distance: 3.1 miles total

Are you ready for a quick PNW history lesson?  In 1862, angst over the possibility of Confederate raiders and foreign fleets approaching the Columbia River from the North, the “Post at Cape Disappointment” was developed to add protection against such threats.  One year later, Fort Stevens was established to increase protection of the Columbia River.  The post was renamed to its current title, Fort Cape Disappointment, in 1984. To add confusion, the fort was renamed again in 1875 to Fort Canby.  Fort Stevens, Fort Canby, and Fort Columbia provided protection as the three fort Columbia River harbor defense through WWII. 

Predating these forts was the construction of Cape Disappointment Lighthouse in 1856. The original, and still functional lighthouse still stands today!  Interestingly enough, Cape D lighthouse is the second oldest lighthouse on the west coast, following the Alcatraz lighthouse built a year earlier…

Point is - this area is worth exploring! Detailed below are three short hikes highlighting the history of Cape D. The first hike explores North Head Lighthouse and Beards Hollow. The second hike visits an artillery post called Battery 247. While the third hike explorers a much larger artillery post – Battery Harvey Allen and an up close look at Cape Disappointment Lighthouse.

North Head Lighthouse

North Head Lighthouse

Because the view of Cape D Lighthouse was obstructed from the north, a new Lighthouse, North Head, was constructed in 1898 (Sorry – last history fact.. I think).  To find this 65 foot tower, take a right on head lighthouse Rd, from Head Rd. This should be the first right turn after entering the State Park via Head Rd.

Once you find the parking lot (don’t forget your Discover Pass) you have two trailheads to choose from. The north TH will take you to a viewpoint over looking Beards Hollow and the coast, while the south TH will deliver you to the foot of North Head Lighthouse.

Battery 247
As displayed in the map below, to locate Battery 247 continue south on N Head Rd. As you merge with Jetty Rd, follow signs to the campground. Battery 247 is a short stop along the way. A small parking area and monument marks the spot.

Cape D Lighthouse in the distance

The artillery site is perched on a hill and disguised in the brush. Follow the quarter mile path straight up. You’ll catch glimpses of Cape D Lighthouse along the way.

 The Battery is one large cement shaft protruding through the hillside, with an exit on either side. There are still remnants of howitzer ports near each point of entry.

Howitzer Port

On a side note – The campgrounds are in a phenomenal location! Practically on the beach – great for early morning clamming. However, Long Beach is just north of the state park, which allows fee free driving, camping, and parking right on the sand.

My big catch of the day

Cape Disappointment Lighthouse
And for the finale, continue as far south on N Head Rd as you can, continue on Coast Guard Rd while following signs for the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center.  Park and hit the trail.

North Jetty

The first stop is Battery Harvey Allen - another artillery site. Follow the path behind the interpretive center for unobstructed views of North Jetty, Cape D Lighthouse, and the mouth of the Columbia River.

Cape Disappointment and Lighthouse

To reach Cape D Lighthouse, follow the path another quarter mile, right past dead man’s cove.

map