Weekender: Seaside, Ore.
Hike Tillamook Head from Cannon Beach to Seaside
By Sandra Kennedy
Photos by Keith Groves
Near the bustling tourist town of Cannon Beach, the Tillamook Head trail awaits at Ecola State Park. This breathtaking coastal hike stretches a moderate six miles from Cannon Beach to Seaside and features classic Oregon coast views: craggy cliffs, crashing waves, lighthouses, and fragrant forests of Sitka spruce.
Follow this trail and you’ll be walking in the footsteps of famous explorers Lewis and Clark, who crossed it in search of a beached whale. In 1806, this was the most westerly point of their expedition. When viewing the scenery from here, Capt. William Clark said, “From this moment I beheld the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.” More than 100 years later, you’ll be inclined to agree.
The hike
This hike is best done using a car shuttle, so you can enjoy a leisurely day on the trail.
If you start at the Indian Beach trailhead at Ecola State Park, like we did, leave another car at the Tillamook Head trailhead in Seaside.
From the Indian Beach trailhead, we switchbacked to the highest elevation of the hike at 1,130 feet. From here we got spectacular views of the Tillamook Head Lighthouse. Fog swirled around us on this fall day, creating a magical effect.
At 1.5 miles, we passed the area known as “Hiker’s Camp,” where free cabins are available on a first-come, first-served basis. No water is available, so bring your own.
In summer, the Tillamook Head trail is heavily used but in fall or winter you’ll have it practically to yourself. We saw hardly any other hikers on the foggy fall day that we hiked the trail. By the time we arrived in Seaside, we felt as pleased with our expedition as Lewis and Clark must have been.
How to get there
From Portland, take highway 26 towards the Oregon Coast. After about 80 miles, turn left on highway 101 south. Go four miles and take the first Cannon Beach exit. Turn right, following signs to Ecola State Park. After two miles you will come to the entrance booth ($5 day use pass). The picnic area is on the left and Indian Beach is 1.5 miles to the right.
Plan your trip
- Ecola State Park Office: www.oregonstateparks.org/park_188.php
- Seaside Chamber of Commerce: www.seasidechamber.com
- Cannon Beach Chamber of Commerce: www.cannonbeach.org
Recess Team, 2 years ago
That entire stretch is just amazing. I surf short sands all the time, and I almost love the walk down, more than the surf! Oregon has an unbelievable coastline.
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