Cape Flattery Trail
On the Makah Reservation, a forest-and-boardwalk trail descends to four platforms above sea caves, offshore wildlife, and Tatoosh Island.
Artwork inspired by Marvin Oliver
Cape Flattery forms the northwestern tip of the contiguous United States, where Pacific swell meets the entrance to the Strait of Juan de Fuca. Four observation decks reveal sea caves, rugged headlands, jade-colored water, Tatoosh Island, seabirds, sea lions, and seasonally passing whales. The trail lies on the Makah Reservation and should be understood as a tribal destination, not simply a geographic superlative.
The path runs about three-quarters of a mile each way and loses roughly 200 feet through dirt, stairs, roots, and boardwalks before the climb back. Carry out all waste, remain on the main trail, and keep dogs leashed. Purchase the required Makah recreation permit through an authorized outlet and check tribal notices before making the long drive to Neah Bay.
- Setting
- Neah Bay, Washington
- Tribal permit
- Makah Recreation Pass required
- Allow
- 4–8 hours
Quick guide
- At the platforms
- Sea caves, Tatoosh Island, birds, and marine mammals
- Respect the place
- Carry the Makah permit and remain on the main trail
Read the cape
- Geography
- Locate the Pacific, Strait of Juan de Fuca, and Tatoosh Island.
- Water
- Watch swell and current reveal submerged rock and sea-cave openings.
- Wildlife
- Scan from the platforms rather than approaching cliff or resting animals.
- Return
- Reserve energy for the uphill walk and pack out every item you bring.
Good to know
The viewpoint is reached through the sovereign Makah Reservation. The recreation permit supports access, but it does not replace trail etiquette or permission for other beaches and tribal lands.
Notice these
- northwestern tip of the contiguous United States on
- boardwalk viewpoints over sea caves
- 4–8 hours