Ecola State Park in Cannon Beach, Clatsop County, United States | Park

Ecola State Park, located off Highway 101, north of Cannon Beach, offers some of the most breathtaking and exquisite views to be found on the Oregon Coast.

To the south lies Cannon Beach and its landmark Haystack Rock. The mists and fog compete with the sun to create an ever-changing vista. The surf changes from low white foam to crashing swells, from cobalt blue to sea green, to the myriad shades of grey in a storm. You won't see the same scene twice!

From the north take the first Cannon Beach exit. From the south take the last Cannon Beach exit. The exit is clearly marked in both directions with signs to Ecola State Park. Follow the signs to the Park road which winds uphill for about two miles through dense forest of old growth Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock. The road is narrow and curvy - go slow! Watch for bicyclists.

The beaches in Ecola State Park are ideal for beach walking. Overnight camping is not permitted (although there is a hike-in camp 1.5 miles from the Indian Beach trailhead). Ecola State Park has several picnic areas with barbecues. The Park provides restrooms. Dogs are allowed on a leash, but horses are not allowed. Year-round, a fee of $3.00 per car is charged for day use.

From the Parking lot, trails lead to several viewing points within the Park. Take the trail up around the point for an excellent view of "Terrible Tilly," Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. Bring your binoculars! Twice a year whales can be seen during their migration.

The six mile Tillamook Head Trail runs from Cannon Beach to Seaside. The trail is the same one followed by Lewis and Clark. There is also a two mile horseshoe trail to Indian Beach and Indian Creek. From Indian Creek (the trail head) the Trail leads up to Indian Point for more stunning views (including an excellent view of Terrible Tilly), past an old camp and bunker, with view after awesome view.

If you're looking for a place to relax, inhale outrageous coast beauty and feel the stress blow away on the coastal wind, Ecola State Park will never disappoint you. There is something to take your breath away every day of the year - even on a dark and stormy afternoon . . .