A border etched with historical words is separated from Baker Bay by a berm of rough rocks. The installation was designed by architect Maya Lin.

It’s a beautiful September afternoon here at the Chinook Observer and my work is caught up for the moment. Time for a little reflection, a little grounding for my soul and that Ilwaco vitamin “D.” In the car I go to visit a poignant little path at the Cape Disappointment boat launch. (Hence, opting for spur!) If you haven’t been, it’s a nice little spot for everyone. Let’s take a walk!

More Information

CAPE DISAPPOINTMENT STATE PARK

244 Robert Gray Drive in beautiful Ilwaco, WA 98624

Phone: 360-642-3078.

The park is open year round for camping and day use. A Discover Pass is required to park a vehicle within the park.

After parking the car and taking a big stretch and deep breath, I am welcomed by all the birds in the trees up above. I am not a bird expert by any means, but I certainly do appreciate them and the beautiful sounds they make. It was story telling time. From sea gulls to osprey, eagles to turkey buzzards — everyone had something to say. Blue jays were behind me in some beautiful old growth tree settings and little finches were singing in the light of the large mossy oaks. Not having even started my walk, I felt blessed. Nature at it’s best. I love where we live!

So, I walk across towards the water near the boat launch. A quick hello to a gentleman angler down on the rocks at low tide — no fish on, but they were jumping all around him. I would like to say that I gave nature a little nudge with hopes that his next cast would bring in dinner. Onward down the trail to a small canopy of trees, brush and what look likes the starting of the change of seasons.

Colors abound on my little walk and I hear voices! That is usually the case, but today they are real! (Forgive me for being a little eccentric.)

Two more fishermen trying to get those jumpers. I’m not kidding when I say there was one or two every few seconds. As I walk around taking pictures of this beautiful channel of water, all I hear is plunk, plunk, plunk. I wish the people fishing “good luck” in there afternoon of splendor and I go about my business. I’m kicking myself that I didn’t have my pole with me, but there is always tomorrow after work.

This little trail is really a gem. There are a few paths in and around it and I was half expecting to see a raccoon or a deer pop out. I don’t feel Bigfoot’s presence in this neck of the woods — maybe on my next journey and for my next story. There is an informational standing marker to get your bearings and a beautiful ground border with a handsome quote — make it a point to look for it and read it. Homage to our Pacific Northwest!

This area, as I have mentioned before in my stories, is so special, so pristine — it never gets old. Come down and enjoy what Ilwaco and Cape D have to offer. A 135 feet of dock, boating, clamming, crabbing, fishing (freshwater/saltwater), eight miles of hiking trails, bird watching and opportunities to manifest good things in your life and ground yourself.

Food for thought: A recreational license is required for fishing and shellfish harvesting at Washington state parks. For regulations, fishing season information, or to purchase a recreational license, visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Also, not far from this destination is the Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, perched on a 200-foot-high cliff. It’s the story of Lewis and Clark and their journey from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean. There is also the Cape Disappointment L ighthouse. Something I visit almost weekly — Disappointment awaits!

My time spent here today was nothing short of rewarding. I feel at peace with an energized outlook for the rest of the day. Get out there and explore our beautiful shores and all they have to offer! Don’t stop believin’ — thank you reading and remember, if you pack it in, pack it out! It’s the right thing to do!