Cape Falcon in Portland 2025
Spectacular coastal views just two hours away from Portland
Best time: May–October
Cape Falcon is located on Oregon’s north coast. The area includes the Cape Falcon Marine Reserve and Oswald West State Park near the town of Manzanita. Visitors can enjoy hiking, beach walking, surfing, and seabird watching. Cape Falcon Trail is 4.6-mile (7.4 km) long with an elevation gain of 623 ft (189 m). It's best to use the trail during the warm time of the year, which is from May to October.
Starting at the Cape Falcon Trailhead near the town of Nehalem, Oregon. The trail goes along the side of a forested ridge by the side of Short Sands creek. Soon you'll reach the signed trail junction. But before turning right and following the trail to Cape Falcon, it maybe worth it to walk to a scenic Short Sand Beach and Smuggler's Cove first.
The trail is often muddy in the winter and spring. Its last section lies in a massive slide zone. Here you can make a small detour to see beautiful Blumenthal Falls. The trail ends with a few viewpoints. You will see Neahkahnie Mountain and the town of Manzanita from the top.
