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.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Cape Falcon in Portland?
Visiting Cape Falcon in Portland during the warm months, from May to October, is ideal for hiking, beach walking, surfing, and seabird watching. To avoid a muddy trail, visitors should avoid winter and spring. A pleasant experience can be ensured by checking the weather forecast before starting the trail. Show more
Where is the starting point for the Cape Falcon Trail?
To start the 4.6-mile trek of the Cape Falcon Trail, visitors must go to the Cape Falcon Trailhead near Nehalem, Oregon. The journey can either be by driving or using a local shuttle service. Along the trail, visitors will pass several landmark junctions and will reach Cape Falcon. Short Sand Beach and Smuggler's Cove can be seen by taking a small detour before continuing on the trail. Show more
What activities can visitors enjoy in Cape Falcon?
Apart from hiking, the area offers several activities for visitors, which include beach walking, surfing, and seabird watching. Short Sand Beach and Smuggler's Cove are popular destinations for walking, while Short Sand Beach attracts surfers of all levels. Those hiking the Cape Falcon Trail will be mesmerized by the scenic view of the coast, Neahkahnie Mountain, and the town of Manzanita. Show more
Are there any precautions visitors should take while hiking the trail?
As it tends to be muddy in some places, visitors are advised to wear comfortable and sturdy hiking shoes while hiking the Cape Falcon Trail. Sunscreen, water and insect repellant should be brought, and a first aid kit is indispensable. Being cautious while passing through a massive slide zone on the route is paramount. Also, visitors must leave no trace behind and must respect the area's wildlife. Show more
What are the notable landmarks that can be seen from the trail viewpoints?
Visitors are privy to the stunning sights of Neahkahnie Mountain and the town of Manzanita at the viewpoints located at the end of the Cape Falcon Trail. The Cape Falcon Marine Reserve, Oswald West State park, Short Sand Beach, and Smuggler's Cove can also be seen, while a small detour on the route leads to the Blumenthal Falls, nestled in a massive slide zone. Show more
