Hiking Cascade Head in Otis, Oregon: A Comprehensive Guide
Cascade Head, located near Otis, Oregon, is a breathtaking coastal headland offering hikers panoramic views, diverse ecosystems, and a chance to experience one of the most scenic trails on the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a nature enthusiast, the Cascade Head Trail promises an unforgettable adventure. Just 25 minutes north of Lincoln City, this beautiful hike takes you through thick forest on a well marked path until you finally reach Cascade Head, a beautiful hilltop covered with long grasses and colorful flowers with views for miles in every direction.
Overview of Cascade Head
- Location: Otis, Oregon, approximately 25 minutes north of Lincoln City.
- Trail Length: Varies depending on the chosen route; popular options range from 4 to 6.8 miles round trip.
- Elevation Gain: Approximately 1300 feet.
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
- Best Time to Visit: March through October for optimal weather and trail conditions.
You’re going to want to bring a water bottle with you for this hike and possibly a light snack too. Don’t forget your camera to take plenty of photos and videos of your long trek through the woods and to record the impressive views from the top of Cascade Head!
Trail Options and Highlights
Cascade Head Lower Viewpoint Trail
The Cascade Head Lower Viewpoint Trail is a popular route that begins at Knight County Park. This trail offers hikers a journey through lush coastal forests, wooden bridges, and open meadows leading to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
- Trailhead: Knight County Park.
- Distance: Approximately 4.2 miles round trip.
- Highlights:
- Traverses through Sitka spruce and western hemlock forests.
- Features several wooden bridges over streams.
- Opens up to grassy headlands with panoramic ocean views.
Cascade Head Rainforest Trailhead
For those seeking a more secluded experience, the Cascade Head Rainforest Trailhead offers a journey through dense temperate rainforests, showcasing the area’s rich biodiversity.
- Trailhead: Accessed via Forest Road 1861.
- Distance: Approximately 12.2 miles round trip.
- Highlights:
- Passes through old-growth forests with towering trees.
- Features a variety of mosses, lichens, and ferns.
- Offers glimpses of the Salmon River Estuary and surrounding landscapes.
Note: Certain sections of the trail may be closed seasonally to protect sensitive habitats. Always check current trail conditions before planning your hike.
Flora and Fauna of Cascade Head
Cascade Head is part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, boasting a rich array of plant and animal life.
Flora:
- Coastal wildflowers such as goldenrod, blue violet, and streambank lupine.
- Rare species like the Cascade Head catchfly, with 99% of its global population found here.
Fauna:
- Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, and snowshoe hares.
- Bird species including bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and the threatened marbled murrelet.
- The Oregon silverspot butterfly, dependent on the early blue violet for its lifecycle.
Trail Regulations and Guidelines
To preserve the delicate ecosystems of Cascade Head:
- Pets: Not allowed on the trails to protect wildlife and sensitive habitats.
- Stay on Designated Trails: Venturing off-trail can damage fragile plant communities and disturb wildlife.
- No Bicycles or Motorized Vehicles: These are prohibited to maintain trail integrity and safety.
- Seasonal Closures: Some trail sections are closed from January 1 to July 15 to protect nesting birds and other wildlife.
There are also bridges you must cross on this particular trail. Small children are not recommended to accompany you on this hike unless they can be carried on your back as it is very steep and difficult.
Getting There
From Lincoln City:
- Head north on US-101 for approximately 3.5 miles.
- Turn left onto Three Rocks Road.
- Continue for about 2.4 miles to reach Knight County Park, the starting point for the Lower Viewpoint Trail.
There are several routes you can take to get to Cascade Head. One of these routes can be found via N Three Rocks Road off of Hwy 101. Continue traveling down this road until you get to a fork in the road. Turn left here and Parking is available at Knight County Park. Please respect private property and park only in designated areas. Please note that fishing and hunting are also not legal back here.
Stay with Oregon Beach Vacations
Enhance your Cascade Head hiking experience by staying in one of our comfortable and conveniently located vacation rentals. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage or a spacious oceanfront home, Oregon Beach Vacations has the perfect accommodation for you.
- Ocean Views: Wake up to the sight and sound of the Pacific Ocean.
- Pet-Friendly Options: Bring your furry friends along for the adventure.
- Hot Tubs: Relax after a day of hiking.
- Proximity to Trails: Stay just minutes away from Cascade Head and other scenic hikes.
Book your ideal coastal retreat today!
From the beach, hike back up the road until you reach this sign.
You can begin your hike from here. There are also more hiking entrances, but they are not in this area.
What to Bring
- Water: Ensure you have enough for the duration of your hike.
- Snacks: Light, energy-boosting snacks are recommended.
- Camera: Capture the stunning vistas and diverse wildlife.
- Binoculars: Ideal for birdwatching and spotting distant wildlife.
- Layered Clothing: Weather can change rapidly; dress in layers.
- Sturdy Footwear: Trails can be steep and uneven; hiking boots are recommended.
The beach where you parked is extremely rocky and not very suitable for playing on, but if you can get across the water to the sand bar, then you could potentially play in the sand. Canoeing and kayaking are fun activities to do at this beach. Please note that you cannot reach Cascade Head from the beach area. The cliff side is very steep, even if it does not appear to be so from far away, and the rocks are covered in seaweed and dangerous to climb on.
Enjoy your hike up to Cascade Head while relaxing in one of our beautiful Oregon vacation rentals on your next visit down to the coast!
