The central section of the Siuslaw National Forest finds the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway (Highway 101) moving closer to the Pacific Ocean providing outstanding views of the Pacific Ocean and plenty of publicly owned beaches to explore.
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, located between Newport and Florence, offers the Forest visitor a chance to wander through old-growth Sitka Spruce, experience crashing surf, investigate tide pools, whale watch or take a guided hike.
Check out a haunted lighthouse keeper’s home at Heceta Head. Try boating, fishing, hiking to waterfalls, berry picking and more.
Inland are more recreational opportunities, including Marys Peak, in the Coast Range. Highways 20, 34 and 126 offer connections to the mid and southern Willamette Valley and the cities of Corvallis and Eugene.
Towering 800 feet over the Pacific Ocean, the Cape Perpetua headland is the highest viewpoint accessible by car on the Oregon Coast. From this high point, enjoy views of the Cape Perpetua Marine Reserve and the rugged and rocky shore where visitors can witness the power of the ocean as it meets the coastal temperate rainforest.
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area encompasses 2,700 acres of coastal habitat and was set aside for its exceptional ecological characteristics. A 26-mile trail system offers many opportunities to experience this lush and diverse temperate rainforest.
People have been part of this landscape for at least 6,000 years and Cape Perpetua bears evidence of this rich history. Archaeological sites provide hints into village life of the Native American Alsea people, who called this area Halaqaik. When British explorer James Cook saw the headland in 1778, he named it for Saint Perpetua. Many of the trails we find here today were first constructed by a unit of the Civilian Conservation Corps as President Franklin D. Roosevelt sought to provide work for young men during the Great Depression. Their camp occupied the area where the visitor center is today.
Cape Perpetua Visitor Center is open seven days a week most of the year, with reduced hours in the winter. Visitor Center staff and exhibits will guide you to the cultural and natural history of the area. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to answer questions and help plan your visit.
The area offers lots of great activities and adventures for families, including a mobile app to help explore the coastal forest, junior ranger programs, and more. Ranger-led programs and guided walks are available throughout the year, including winter and spring whale watch events. Be sure to check our news and events page frequently and follow us on Facebook and Twitter for event information and updates, or contact the Visitor Center for details at 541-547-3289.
Would you like to share the wonders of Cape Perpetua with visitors? Volunteer at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center! Find out more from our volunteer page.
