New Dungeness Lighthouse Guide
Shine a Light on History: The New Dungeness Lighthouse Guide
Step back in time and experience the maritime history of the Pacific Northwest at the New Dungeness Lighthouse. Located at the end of the Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the United States, this iconic lighthouse offers breathtaking views, fascinating stories, and a unique opportunity to live like a lighthouse keeper. It's a must-see for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable adventure. The New Dungeness Lighthouse has been guiding ships through the Strait of Juan de Fuca since 1857. The original lighthouse was replaced with the current structure in 1933. For over a century, dedicated lighthouse keepers and their families lived and worked at this remote outpost, ensuring the safe passage of vessels through treacherous waters. Today, the lighthouse is maintained by the New Dungeness Light Station Association, a non-profit organization that preserves its history and offers unique volunteer opportunities. The primary activity at the New Dungeness Lighthouse is the experience of getting there! The 5.5-mile hike along the Dungeness Spit is a beautiful journey in itself, offering stunning views of the Strait of Juan de Fuca, the Olympic Mountains, and abundant wildlife. Once at the lighthouse, you can take a tour, climb to the top for panoramic views, and learn about the history of the lighthouse and its keepers. A unique opportunity is to volunteer as a lighthouse keeper for a week, living and working at the lighthouse and sharing its stories with visitors. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the lighthouse, the experience of preparing and sharing meals in this historic setting is a special one.
Transportation
Getting to the New Dungeness Lighthouse requires a commitment! You'll need to drive to the Dungeness Recreation Area, located west of Sequim. From there, it's a 5.5-mile hike along the Dungeness Spit to the lighthouse. Be prepared for a long walk on sand, and check the tide charts before you go to ensure safe passage. There is no public transportation directly to the Dungeness Recreation Area.