Gem of the North Coast
Ecola State Park
Wrapping around Tillamook Head, between Seaside and Cannon Beach, Ecola State Park stretches along nine miles of coastline and offers outstanding sightseeing and recreation opportunities.
Ecola State Park: The View From Here
You know those iconic images of Cannon Beach, the ones used by travel sites everywhere? Most of those were taken from viewpoints in Ecola State Park. In fact, Ecola is full of stunning views. How stunning? Well, Captain William Clark (of Lewis and Clark fame) described the views from the north slope of Tillamook Head as:
“… the grandest and most pleasing prospects which my eyes ever surveyed.”
And when you visit this park, funded in part by the Oregon Lottery, it’s easy to understand Captain Clark’s enthusiasm.
The road and trails wend their way through lush, old growth rain forest filled with ferns and moss. Wander Indian Beach for tide pools or surfing. While picnicking or hiking, keep an eye on the sky. It’s not uncommon to spot bald eagles sailing overhead. As you hike past meadows, watch for herds of elk – especially common in the morning. And, if you’re particularly lucky, as you look out from the beach, you might spot some whales. Wherever you go in Ecola State Park, you’ll want your camera ready; the views are outstanding!
Enjoying Ecola
Hiking:
Walk in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark on an 8-mile segment of the Oregon Coast Trail. Or try the easier, 2.5-mile Clatsop Loop Interpretive Trail from Indian Beach. Be sure to wear your hiking boots!
Tide Pools:
The out-going tide uncovers a universe of tiny worlds, each populated by creatures like sea stars, hermit crabs and sea urchins. Advice for those visiting their homes? Do keep an eye on the tides and wear sturdy shoes, but please don’t touch or interfere with the living creatures. Watch them in wonder and take home the memories!
Visiting Ecola Locals
Elk Watching
Although their calendar is less predictable than the whales’, elk are a frequent enough presence in Ecola State Park that visitors often incorporate Elk watching in their itineraries. And why not? They roam everywhere from the open beaches to the park’s lush, hidden pockets of forest. But like any wild animal, they can be unpredictable and occasionally even aggressive. Best to appreciate them from a respectful distance. Please, no selfies with the “Roosevelts”!
More From Tillamook County
Ecola State Park is just one of Tillamook County’s coastal playgrounds. Consider visiting Oswald West State Park, the Cape Meares Lighthouse, or learn more about Cape Lookout State Park and the difference Lottery dollars are making there.
Cape Lookout State ParkFeatured Projects
LOTTERY DOLLARS DOING GOOD THINGS IN YOUR COMMUNITY
Economic Growth
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Outdoor School
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