Hiking on the Central Oregon Coast
Cascade Head hiking trail
The views are magnificent. The air comes straight off the Pacific ocean. The trail is classified as moderately strenuous but well worth the exercise. If you don't make it to the top, the half way point still has excellent views of the Salmon river estuary as the river drains into the ocean. Looking south along the coast is the city of Lincoln City (a good place to eat after an invigorating hike).
The trail is well maintained and starts at Knight County Park. The trail meanders through a shaded forest area as it climbs up toward the north and west. The trail then emerges from the forest to a grassy knoll with a spectacular view of the Salmon river estuary and the rivers confluence with the Pacific ocean. The trail then turns north along the coastal bluff as it climbs to the top. This part gets a little steeper but is well worth the effort. Don't forget to bring a camera. Water and a snack may come in handy also.
This area is under the protection of the Nature Conservancy Preserve for wildlife protection and hikers are asked to stay on the trail. Contact the Hebo ranger station or Siuslaw National Forest for more information.
Directions:
From Lincoln City drive north on Highway 101 to 3 Rocks Rd. about 1.2 miles north of the Highway 18 cutoff. Turn left on 3 Rocks Rd. for about 2.3 miles. On the left is Knight County Park. The trail starts at the North end of the parking lot crossing 3 Rocks rd. Then follows Savage Rd. for .4 miles before continuing through the forest at a well marked sign.