Places To Explore

Amanda's Trail

Amanda’s Trail (2.9 miles) connects the coastal community of Yachats with the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area and also represents a section of the Oregon Coast Trail. The trail is a memorial to the forced relocation of Native Americans to the vast Siletz Reservation, and then their subsequent relocation from that reservation when white settlers began to claim coastal lands. You can begin the hike on the rocky coast at the south end of Yachats; for a stretch, the path runs right alongside Highway 101. You will cross the highway and then enter a private forest on an easement. After paying your respects at the Amanda Statue, hike up the steep slope to admire the expansive views from the historic Cape Perpetua Stone Shelter at the top of Cape Perpetua's old shield volcano.

Cape Perpetua - Stone Shelter

The Stone Shelter sits atop the 45 million-year-old oceanic shield volcano of Cape Perpetua. The Civilian Conservation Corps established a camp at Cape Perpetua in 1933: this was in the area of the current Visitors Center. The West Shelter was used as an observation post during World War II and a coastal defense gun was installed here. The shelter is now on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can drive to the top of Cape Perpetua. The shelter can also be reached from the Visitors Center and campground via the St. Perpetua and Whispering Spruce Trails.

Devil's Churn

Located just north of the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, here you can watch the crashing waves and the dramatic churning action of the ocean  inside the wave carved inlet that we call Devils Churn.  This deep chasm exposes the shoreline's volcanic history and shows the relentless, violent power of the ocean.

The 804 Trail

The 804 is a 1.3 mile out and back trail located near Yachats, Oregon that offers the chance to see wildlife and is good for all skill levels. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, and nature trips. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Great place to see the sunset and has a long paved section.

Heceta Head Lighthouse

Perched atop 1,000-foot-high Heceta Head, the lighthouse is one of the most photographed on the coast. The light atop the 56-foot tower was first illuminated in 1894. Its automated beacon, seen 21 miles from land, is rated as the strongest light on the Oregon coast.  A half-mile trail to the lighthouse begins in the parking area and passes the lightkeeper’s house on its way up to the lighthouse and viewpoint.
Oregon Coast Aquarium

Kids and Adults alike will love the Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport.  So much to see, touch, and hear.  It is consistently one of the Top 10 Aquariums in the U.S.

Thor's Well

SITTING ON THE EDGE OF the Oregon coast near Cape Perpetua, a gaping, seemingly bottomless sinkhole swallows the unbroken stream of seawater around it. Thor’s Well, as the natural wonder is known, is not actually bottomless; it is, however, very dangerous.  A photographers dream.

Yachats River North Fork Covered Bridge

Built in 1938, the bridge carries North Fork Yachats River Road over the north fork of the Yachats River, about 9 miles northeast of Yachats and the Pacific Ocean. The bridge was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Built in 1872 (active since Aug. 20, 1973), this 93 foot lighthouse is nearly one mile into the Pacific Ocean just North of Newport.  A great place to whale watch and there is also a great museum/ visitors center.