Attraction Guide: Dungeness Spit National Wildlife Refuge, Sequim, United States

Dungeness Spit National Wildlife Refuge Guide

Dungeness Spit: Walk the Longest Natural Sand Spit in the US Guide

Dungeness Spit National Wildlife Refuge, located near Sequim, Washington, is home to Dungeness Spit, the longest natural sand spit in the United States. This unique geological formation stretches over five miles into the Strait of Juan de Fuca, creating a protected bay that serves as a vital habitat for a wide variety of wildlife. The refuge offers stunning views of the Olympic Mountains, the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and the surrounding coastline, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and birdwatchers. The Dungeness Spit has been formed over thousands of years by the deposition of sand and gravel carried by currents and waves. The area has a long history of human use, with the Klallam Native American tribe inhabiting the region for centuries. The New Dungeness Lighthouse, located at the end of the spit, was built in 1857 and has served as a vital navigational aid for ships entering and leaving the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The refuge was established in 1915 to protect the spit and its surrounding ecosystem. The primary activity at Dungeness Spit National Wildlife Refuge is hiking along the spit to the New Dungeness Lighthouse. The walk is approximately 11 miles round trip and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Birdwatching is also a popular activity, with opportunities to spot a wide variety of migratory birds, shorebirds, and waterfowl. Visitors can also enjoy beachcombing, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for seals, sea lions, and other marine mammals. While there are no specific culinary traditions within the refuge itself, the nearby town of Sequim offers a variety of dining options.