Discovery Trail

The Discovery Trail is one of the most scenic in the Pacific Northwest with outstanding views of the ocean, grassy dunes and forest groves. As it's named for Lewis and Clark's explorative trek here more than 200 years ago, you'll find several bronze sculptures along the path that commemorate the expedition. But the trail offers a collection of other impressive public art as well that adds to the trail's natural beauty. You may also be lucky enough to see deer, bald eagles, shorebirds and other wildlife on your journey. From the trail's northern terminus in Long Beach, you'll travel south along the coast, at one point paralleling the city's extensive wooden boardwalk from Bolstad Street to Sid Snyder Drive. Continue along the quaint town of Seaview until the trail approaches Cape Disappointment, where it turns east and it becomes forested. If you're not in a hurry, take some time to enjoy the state park's beaches, hiking trails and two lighthouses (both more than 100 years old). The ocean overlook at Beard's Hollow is especially worth a look. You can also learn about the history of the area at the park's Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center. The trail continues east to end at the historic fishing village of Ilwaco.

From Highway 103/Pacific Highway in Long Beach, turn west onto 10th Street S./Sid Snyder Drive and continue 0.2 mile to the beach parking lot. You can also find a large beach parking lot at the end of Bolstad Street. In Cape Disappointment State Park, you can park at the lot at Beard's Hollow.