Between Seaside and Cannon Beach on the Oregon Coast, Ecola State Park is one of the most beautiful places for an invigorating hike! You’ll encounter stunning panoramic water views, lush coastal forests, and historic landmarks. It’s the perfect destination this summer for outdoor recreation, with hiking trails and a nine-mile stretch of golden sandy coastline. Hiking at Ecola State Park will be a memorable part of your getaway to the Oregon Coast!
Ecola State Park offers several hiking trails, ranging from mellow strolls to more challenging hikes. The most popular trail is the Clatsop Loop Trail, an easy-to-moderate hike that offers fantastic views of the ocean, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and, during the right season, migrating gray whales. For a more challenging hike, the Tillamook Head Traverse is a six-mile hike through dense coastal forest, offering spectacular vistas along the way. It’s by far one of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast.
This is just one of the fantastic nature areas for hiking on the Oregon Coast, and first, you’ll want to choose where to make your home away from home. Our Oregon Coast Bed and Breakfast is one of the most elegant lodging options, known as the “Castle by the Coast.” You’ll feel swept away by the thoughtfully designed guest rooms, cozy shared spaces, and sweeping property by the sea. Book your summer lodging today!
As a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, the area around Cannon Beach is dotted with state parks and nature preserves, each with unique ecosystems and picturesque trails. From the whispering pines along rocky cliffs to expansive sandy beaches that stretch toward the horizon, these trails offer an immersive experience of Oregon’s beautiful landscape. Ecola State Park is just one of the options for great hiking trails on the coast!
The Tillamook Head Trail is a popular hike within Ecola State Park and one of the most celebrated trails on the Oregon Coast. Stretching approximately 6.5 miles one way between Cannon Beach and Seaside, the route follows portions of the historic Clatsop Loop Trail used by members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Today, hikers experience dense coastal forest, towering Sitka spruce, and occasional openings that reveal sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean.
One of the most popular destinations along the trail is the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse overlook. Built in 1881 on a sea stack more than a mile offshore, the lighthouse earned the nickname “Terrible Tilly” because of the difficult conditions faced by its keepers. While the lighthouse itself cannot be visited, the viewpoint provides one of the best opportunities to photograph this iconic Oregon landmark.
The Indian Beach Trail is one of the easiest ways to experience the diverse landscapes found within Ecola State Park. The trail passes through lush coastal forest before descending toward Indian Beach, a picturesque stretch of shoreline surrounded by sea stacks and forested bluffs. Along the route, visitors encounter towering evergreens, fern-covered hillsides, and occasional openings that frame ocean views. The relatively short distance makes this trail accessible for most visitors
For those seeking a quieter experience, the trail to Crescent Beach offers one of the park’s hidden treasures. Beginning near Ecola Point, this moderately challenging route descends through forested terrain toward a secluded beach. The trail can be steep in sections, but hikers are rewarded with access to Crescent Beach, Oregon, a beautiful cove framed by cliffs, sea stacks, and dense coastal vegetation. During low tide, visitors can explore tide pools and rocky shoreline features that support a variety of marine life.
The Clatsop Loop Trail branches from the Tillamook Head Trail and provides access to one of the park’s most impressive viewpoints. The route climbs through old-growth forest before reaching a dramatic overlook where visitors can see Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, rugged cliffs, and miles of open ocean. This trail offers a shorter hiking option for visitors who want to experience some of the highlights of Tillamook Head without completing the entire route to Seaside.
Not every trail in Ecola State Park requires a strenuous hike. Several short walking paths near Ecola Point lead to some of the most photographed viewpoints on the Oregon Coast. These easy trails provide outstanding views of Haystack Rock, Cannon Beach, and the surrounding coastline.
Ecola State Park is just a quick drive from our Oregon Coast Bed and Breakfast in the quiet nook of Arch Cape, OR. You’ll be in the ideal location to explore all of the best things to do in Cannon Beach and beyond, but set back for the most peaceful evenings with a quiet, relaxing space all to yourself. Our spacious Inn has only nine guest rooms, creating the perfect destination for romantic getaways and retreats.
You’ll wake up to stunning views of our garden grounds and the waves of the ocean off in the distance. All of our guests are treated to a beautiful breakfast service. Always starting with freshly brewed coffee from local roasters, Sleepy Monk, followed by a chef-driven menu with local, organic ingredients whenever possible. Enjoy your meal in our elegant dining room or outside in the crisp, coastal sunshine.
One of our most romantic rooms, pictured above, is the Tower Room. This light and bright top-floor room has a spectacular ocean view from the ring of windows in the tower sitting area. The highly detailed queen-size bed is carved wood in the Louis XIV style. It is paired with a French armoire of rich fruitwood. The deep oval soaking tub is tucked away in an alcove. Start planning for summer, and book your room today!
Book our non-refundable rate by April 30. If your plans change, we’ll convert your booking into a non-expiring gift certificate.
