Above is this weeks free desktop. This week we return once again to a wonderful place in the northwest US, the Dungeness Spit. Located in the Dungeness National Wildlife Refuge between Sequim and Port Angeles, WA, this is North America's longest natural sand spit at just over 5 miles and it's the world's longest spit into the ocean. This thin ribbon of land jutts into the Strait of Juan de Fuca creating the Dungeness Harbor between it and the coast of Washington. The harbor and the protected coast provide a real haven for wildlife and gives us a wonderful opportunity to experience a diverse selection of both plants and animals when exploring the refuge. Now, the photo here was taken just about low tide in May 2004 about a little past mid-point of the spit. This shot is looking back over the spit and Dungeness Harbor, at the Washington coast and the beginning of the spit (which would be around that dark section of coast just to the left of center in the pic). One can have a truly wonderful, relaxing day hike here, and for those wishing to experience this to it's fullest, making the 10 mile hike to the lighthouse and back is amazing. Yes, located near the end of the spit is the New Dungeness Lighthouse, a National Historic Site. Stopping for a picnic here is encouraged as tables are provided and it offers a nice mid-hike break. A tour of the lighthouse is available from the volunteers manning it and is highly recommended. I truly like this place and find it a real gem for those looking for something a bit different to explore. (;