- If you’re visiting the Dungeness River area from October through February, you’ll have the chance to fish for Coho salmon and steelhead trout, especially in the upper river.
- Also, take time to walk the lovely trail at Railroad Bridge Park, where you can photograph the sparkling waters of the river and the beautiful nature around it all year long.
What can I see and do at the Dungeness River?
Fishing
Designated a “wild” river because of its uncontrollability during spring and summer flooding, the Dungeness River once supported four different species of salmon – Pink, Coho, Chinook, and Chum – as well as ocean-going steelhead trout, but its population has diminished lately and Dungeness River fishing has waned a bit.
The summer season is sparse at best but the winter season – December through February – still provides an opportunity to catch hatchery steelhead, and the fall is a good time for Coho fishing. Trout anglers should concentrate on the area from Gold Creek and up, where larger cutthroat trout are ample. If you’re around in May or June, look for halibut.
Walking/Cycling
Railroad Bridge Park, part of the Olympic Discovery Trail, is set along a 25-acre stretch of the Dungeness River and includes a picturesque ironwork bridge and paths suitable for walking, jogging, or riding a bike. The path starts at the Dungeness River Audubon Center, where you can learn about native birds, and continues along the river into the woods, where it links with an equestrian trail.
Guided bird walks are offered on Wednesday mornings during the summer and there’s plenty of room for picnicking. Truly a lovely place for a stroll and there’s even a spot where you can wade in the river a bit. Bring along your camera!
Where is the Dungeness River?
Take U.S. 101 to Sequim and turn north on Sequim Avenue-Dungeness Way, which crosses the river near its mouth. Roads to the left near the river mouth provide access upstream. To reach the upper portion of the Dungeness, drive west from Sequim about 1.5 miles and turn south (left) on River Road. There is also a boat ramp in Sequim Bay State Park.
To reach Railroad Bridge Park, from Highway 101 take the River Road exit. Turn left on River Road, right on West Washington, and left on Hendrickson to the park.
