Oregon’s Majestic Coastal Headland: A Haven of Diverse Flora and Fauna

Published
Oregon's Majestic Coastal Headland: A Haven of Diverse Flora and Fauna

When you’re looking for scenic shores in the United States, head right to the remote beauty of the Oregon Coast. Stretching for 360 miles (580 km) between the border of California and the Columbia River (also, the Washington border), the rugged seaside cliffs are interspersed with lush forests, hidden coves, sandy beaches, and rural towns. It’s hard not to find quintessential scenic views, but one such place that’s more off-the-beaten-path is Cascade Head. This headland, hidden along the Oregon Coast, feels like the end of the world, complete with the barking of sea lions, the crashing of the surf, and the pounding of the many cascades as they pour over the cliff into the ocean (the inspiration for the name). 



Situated in the center of the Oregon coast, between the scenic Tillamook and its renowned cheese and Lincoln City, Cascade Head is part of a 102,110-acre protected biosphere region, which includes a research area, the Salmon River estuary, an experimental forest, the Cascade Head Preserve, and a marine reserve protecting part of the ocean. Cascade Head is best viewed by the nearby hiking trails to appreciate the stunning, remote beauty and natural wonders. While much of coastal Oregon feels removed from civilization, on Cascade Head, you will truly be able to immerse in nature.

A scenic spot on Oregon’s picturesque coast

The green cliffs of Cascade Head overlooking the Pacific Ocean on the Oregon coast



Cascade Head is located just north of Lincoln City, an artsy haven on Oregon’s scenic coast with breathtaking beaches. Although the best views of Cascade Head and its surroundings are reached best by foot, the area is about a 30-minute drive from Lincoln City, about two hours from Portland (home to Oregon’s biggest airport), and an hour from Tillamook.

There are three main options for hiking the headland: the Nature Conservancy Trail, the Upper Viewpoint Trail, and the Harts Cove Trail. The easiest trail, Upper Viewpoint, is an easy one-mile trek through the forest to a picture-perfect meadow overlooking the headland. For waterfalls and the sound of sea lions, take the harder, 5.3-mile trek to Harts Cove, and for expansive views both north and south, try the 4.2-mile Nature Conservancy Trail. 

See also  Take a Look Inside a Snowboarder's Cozy Cabin Retreat

Note that picking wildflowers, camping, fires, hunting, bikes, and dogs are banned at Cascade Head. One ideal place to stay nearby is Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area, especially in one of the classic Oregon Coast yurts. Harts Cove and Upper Viewpoint trails are open seasonally, between July and December, while the Nature Conservancy Trail is open year-round.



The wildlife, wildflowers, and wild sea views of Cascade Head

Three hikers walking on a grassy trail along the Oregon coast

Dave Pennells

By Dave Pennells

Dave Pennells, MS, has contributed his expertise as a career consultant and training specialist across various fields for over 15 years. At City University of Seattle, he offers personal career counseling and conducts workshops focused on practical job search techniques, resume creation, and interview skills. With a Master of Science in Counseling, Pennells specializes in career consulting, conducting career assessments, guiding career transitions, and providing outplacement services. Her professional experience spans multiple sectors, including banking, retail, airlines, non-profit organizations, and the aerospace industry. Additionally, since 2001, he has been actively involved with the Career Development Association of Australia.