Cape Flattery

Cape Flattery is a rocky headland on the northwest tip of Washington State and is the northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States. It sits at the entrance to the Strait of Juan de Fuca and is located on Makah tribal lands.

A short coastal trail leads to multiple boardwalked viewing platforms that overlook the Pacific, sea stacks and the nearby Tatoosh Island, which carries a historic lighthouse. The trail is approximately 1.5 miles roundtrip and is the primary public access route for the cape’s overlooks.

The cape was named by Captain James Cook in 1778. The area is part of the traditional territory of the Makah people and the offshore Tatoosh Island lighthouse was first lit in 1857 to warn ships entering the strait.

Situated on the Olympic Peninsula in Clallam County, Cape Flattery sits within the Makah Reservation near the community of Neah Bay at the far northwest corner of Washington State.

• Access and etiquette: The trail and viewpoints lie within the Makah Reservation; visitors should respect tribal rules and signage when visiting.
• Wildlife and viewing: Good viewing for seabirds, sea stacks and offshore scenery; some whale sightings occur seasonally from the cliff viewpoints.

What to See #

• Cape Flattery Trail: A short coastal trail with boardwalks and multiple viewing platforms that end at sea-cliff overlooks. The route is roughly 1.5 miles roundtrip and provides the standard access point for the cape's viewpoints.
• Tatoosh Island and lighthouse: An offshore island visible from the cape that carries a 19th century lighthouse first lit in 1857; the island and light mark local navigation hazards at the entrance to the Strait of Juan de Fuca.