Ecola State Park

Located just north of Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park offers a dramatic landscape where the Coast Range meets the Pacific Ocean. The park spans 1,200 acres, featuring rugged cliffs, lush forests, and sweeping views of the Pacific. A key feature is the 2.5-mile Clatsop Loop Trail, which follows the path of the historic Corps of Discovery, allowing visitors to walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark. The trail passes through dense Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests, offering a serene contrast to the rugged coastline.

Visitors are drawn to the park’s stunning viewpoints, particularly the view of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, a historic landmark visible from the bluff. The park is a popular spot for photography, with its dramatic sea stacks and rolling hills providing a picturesque backdrop. The area is also known for its rich biodiversity, including a variety of ferns and wildflowers that thrive in the moist, coastal environment.

The park is open year-round, and while a day-use parking fee applies, visitors should be prepared for the variable weather conditions typical of the Oregon coast. The roads leading to the park can be narrow and winding, so caution is advised. Ecola State Park is a popular destination for hikers, photographers, and nature enthusiasts, offering a peaceful retreat with breathtaking views of the Pacific Northwest’s natural beauty.