Hiking Hotspots

Cascade Head

Three miles north of Lincoln City, Cascade Head offers out-and-back trails with breathtaking views of the Oregon coastline and the Salmon River Estuary. Oregon's only UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is a protected wildlife sanctuary—removal of foliage, hunting, camping, fires, bicycles, and dogs are not allowed to help preserve this delicate habitat.

1. Nature Conservancy Trail – Lower Trailhead

Open year-round, this four-mile-long, out-and-back trail covers the north and south sides of the headlands. While terrain can be challenging, the view of the Salmon River Estuary and Pacific coastline is worth it. Travel west from Highway 101 down Three Rocks Road to Knight Park, where the trailhead can be found following the shoulder of Savage Road.

2. Nature Conservancy Trail – Upper Trailhead (currently closed)

To protect the endangered Silver Spotted Butterfly, the Upper Trailhead of Cascade Head is only open from July 16 to Dec. 31. This hike is easier than the lower trailhead—accessible by taking Forest Service Road 1861 west from Highway 101 to the trailhead. This makes for a level, two-mile, out-and-back hike to reach the upper viewpoint.

The lower and upper trails connect for a six-mile out-and-back adventure surrounded by natural beauty.

3. Harts Cove (currently closed)

Like the Upper Trailhead, Harts Cove is open from July 16 to Dec. 31 and can be found taking the same Forest Service Road 1861 west from Highway 101. The trailhead is found further west along the road and is not for the faint of heart, with difficult terrain and elevation changes. But through the bridges and groves of Sitka spruce and Western hemlock in this five-mile, out-and-back trail, you will stumble across the gorgeous Harts Cove, where oftentimes seals, sea lions, and whales play in the waters below.

4. Rainforest Trail

This forested adventure is found directly off Highway 101 and can be accessed from either the north or south trailheads. The trailheads are open year-round and are often less crowded. While you will not find the Pacific or the Salmon River Estuary on this moderately difficult six-mile trailhead to trailhead hike, you are still walking through the beautiful old growth of Sitka spruce forests shared by the other Cascade Head hikes.

Drift Creek Falls

Getting to the Drift Creek Falls Trailhead is its own adventure—follow signage south to Drift Creek Road off Highway 101 for two miles and go left on Forest Road 17. Follow the road for 10 miles to the trailhead, where you’ll find parking, a day-use fee area, and restroom. The trailhead can also be accessed from Highway 18 north of Lincoln City—take Bear Creek Road for three miles until it becomes Forest Road 17. Continue the additional seven miles to the trailhead. Drift Creek Falls is open year-round, and during your three-mile out-and-back journey, you will discover a 240-foot suspension bridge leading down to a dramatic 75-foot waterfall, mist into the air.

The Knoll

A little sister headland to Cascade Head, the meadowed hill north of Lincoln City is affectionately known as “The Knoll.” While a moderately difficult three-mile, uphill, out-and-back hike, those who reach the top can breathe in the spectacular views of the Pacific coastline. To reach the trailhead, turn north on NE Devils Lake Blvd from Highway 101. Follow the road past a gate until you reach a cul-de-sac. Park on the street and the trailhead to the Knoll is just beyond the road and takes you through fields and forests.

Other Local Hikes

1. Spring Lake Trail

Open year-round, this 2.5-mile moderate trail loop is a short distance from Regatta Grounds on NE 14th Street, Spring Lake Trail takes you wandering through the wooded area surrounding Spring Lake.

2. Friends of the Wildwood Trail

A one-mile hike canopied by tall trees over woodlands and streams, this easygoing hike can be accessed from West Devils Lake Road, just north of NE 22nd Street at Milepost 2.

3. Regatta Grounds Park

Just off NE 14th Street, this half-mile nature trail loop begins at the north end of Regatta Park. You wander through old-growth forest and will find a 400-year-old grandfather Sitka spruce, stretching more than 200 feet tall.

4. Cutler City Wetlands

An easy one-mile hike through a woodland area, the trail can be accessed from Highway 101, west onto SW 63rd Street, and followed one block to the trailhead.

5. Agnes Creek

Breathe in two miles of trail loop through Western Hemlock, Sitka spruce, and open forest lands. You may catch sight of nesting birds, deer, and other wildlife. Get to Agnes Creek at the end of SW Dune Ave. or at the end of SW 19th Street and start exploring.

6. Alder Island Nature Trail

Prepare to wander this half-mile loop through the Siletz Bay National Wildlife Refuge, winding along the Siletz River and passing through forest and marshland. This flat, easy hike is accessible year-round and offers lovely sights where the river meets the sea. Look for egrets, herons, and marsh birds among the tall alder trees. The trailhead is directly east of Highway 101, just five miles south of Lincoln City. Drive over the Siletz River Bridge and go east onto Millport Slough Lane.