The Oregon Coast is a hiker’s paradise, offering an array of trails that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs. In this guide, I’ll take you to some of the best hiking trails along this stunning coastline.
We’ll cover their locations, trail lengths, difficulty levels, unique features, and the best aspects of each trail. Be sure to stay to the end where I discuss essential hiking tips so you are sure have the best experience possible!
I’m not going to muddy this introduction with a bunch of background information. You can find some of that at the end of this post! Suffice it to say I’ve hiked all of these to varying degrees and they are all simply awesome.
So, without further ado, let’s get to the best coastal hiking in Oregon!
Fort to Sea Trail
Location: Fort Clatsop National Memorial to Sunset Beach
Length: 6.5 miles one-way
Difficulty: Moderate
Unique Feature: Historical route taken by Lewis and Clark
Best Aspect: Rich history and diverse ecosystems
The Fort to Sea Trail follows the path that Lewis and Clark took from Fort Clatsop to the Pacific Ocean. This moderate trail offers a journey through coastal forests, wetlands, and dunes, providing a glimpse into the natural and historical beauty of the area. Along the way, interpretive signs provide insights into the historical significance of the route and the natural habitats you pass through.
Saddle Mountain Trail
Location: Saddle Mountain State Natural Area
Length: 5.2 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Difficult
Unique Feature: Panoramic views from the summit
Best Aspect: Sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Range
Saddle Mountain is a challenging hike with a significant elevation gain, but the effort is rewarded with breathtaking views from the summit. On clear days, you can see as far as Mount Hood and the Pacific Ocean. The trail itself is varied, with sections that traverse through dense forests and open meadows, making it an engaging hike from start to finish.
Cape Lookout Trail
Location: Cape Lookout State Park
Length: 5 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Unique Feature: Peninsula extending into the ocean
Best Aspect: Stunning ocean views and whale-watching opportunities
The Cape Lookout trail offers a moderately challenging hike along a narrow peninsula that juts into the Pacific Ocean. The trail provides spectacular views of the ocean and is a prime spot for whale watching during migration seasons. In addition to its natural beauty, Cape Lookout is also known for its historical significance, having been used as a lookout point during World War II.
Cape Perpetua Trail
Location: Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
Length: 6 miles of interconnected trails
Difficulty: Moderate
Unique Feature: Highest point on the Oregon Coast accessible by trail
Best Aspect: Views of the rugged coastline and old-growth forest
Cape Perpetua boasts a network of trails that lead to some of the most dramatic coastal views in Oregon. The trails wind through lush forests and offer access to tide pools, blowholes, and the iconic Thor’s Well. The area is also rich in cultural history, with ancient Native American sites and remnants of early European settlers’ activities.
God’s Thumb Trail
Location: Lincoln City
Length: 4.4 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Unique Feature: Thumb-shaped basalt formation
Best Aspect: Unique geological formation and panoramic views
God’s Thumb is a moderate hike that takes you to a striking basalt formation resembling a thumb. The trail offers beautiful coastal views and a rewarding sense of solitude. This hike is also known for its lush green hillsides and wildflower displays in the spring, making it a picturesque journey at any time of the year.
Cape Sebastian Trail
Location: Cape Sebastian State Scenic Corridor
Length: 6 miles round-trip
Difficulty: Moderate
Unique Feature: High coastal cliffs
Best Aspect: Panoramic views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean
Cape Sebastian Trail offers a moderately challenging hike along high coastal cliffs. The trail provides stunning views of the ocean and the rugged coastline, making it a must-visit for nature lovers. Along the trail, you can find diverse plant life and bird species, making it a great spot for wildlife observation and photography.
Secret Beach Trail
Location: Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Length: Varies, short hike to the beach
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Unique Feature: Secluded beach with sea stacks
Best Aspect: Privacy and picturesque scenery
Secret Beach is a short but rewarding hike that leads to a secluded beach featuring sea stacks and tide pools. It’s an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat and exploring the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast. The area is also known for its dramatic sunsets, providing a perfect end to a day of hiking and exploration.
Oregon Coast Trail
Location: Entire Oregon Coast, from the Columbia River to the California border
Length: Approximately 382 miles
Difficulty: Varies (Easy to Difficult)
Unique Feature: Continuous trail along the entire Oregon Coast
Best Aspect: Diverse landscapes, from sandy beaches to rugged cliffs
The Oregon Coast Trail is an extensive route that spans the entire length of the Oregon coastline. Hikers can experience a wide range of landscapes, including sandy beaches, rocky headlands, lush forests, and charming coastal towns. The trail varies in difficulty, offering everything from easy beach walks to challenging climbs.
Completing the entire trail would take several days to a couple of weeks and is a rewarding adventure that showcases the full spectrum of Oregon’s coastal beauty. Many sections of the trail pass through state parks and scenic corridors, offering ample opportunities for camping and extended explorations.
Essential Hiking Tips
Leaving No Trace
To preserve the natural beauty of the Oregon Coast, always follow the Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all trash, stay on designated trails, and respect wildlife and plant life.
Best Time of Year to Hike on the Oregon Coast
The best time to hike the Oregon Coast is from late spring to early fall. During these months, the weather is more predictable and pleasant, and the trails are generally in better condition.
Dressing for Oregon Weather
The Oregon Coast can be unpredictable, so dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. A waterproof jacket, sturdy hiking boots, and moisture-wicking clothing are essential.
Parking Pass Requirements
Some trails may require a parking pass. The Oregon State Parks’ day-use parking pass or the Northwest Forest Pass may be needed for certain areas. Always check trailhead information for specific requirements.
Embark on these amazing trails to experience the unparalleled beauty and diversity of the Oregon Coast. Happy hiking!
