The Oregon Coast is home to some of the most scenic hiking trails in the Pacific Northwest, and the areas around Cannon Beach and Manzanita offer some of the best coastal hikes. These trails showcase stunning ocean views, lush coastal forests, and dramatic headlands. Here are some of the most popular hikes near these two towns:
Oregon Coast Hiking Trails You Need to Add to Your List
Cannon Beach Hiking Trails
Ecola State Park – Clatsop Loop Trail
- Distance: 2.5 miles loop
- Difficulty: Moderate
This trail provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, and Cannon Beach’s famous Haystack Rock. It follows the route taken by the Lewis and Clark expedition and offers a mix of old-growth forest and open viewpoints.
Ecola State Park – Crescent Beach Trail
- Distance: 2.4 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
A less crowded alternative to Cannon Beach, this trail leads to a secluded beach with tide pools, sea stacks, and views of the surrounding cliffs.
Cape Falcon Trail (Oswald West State Park)
- Distance: 4.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
Starting in Oswald West State Park, this trail winds through lush Sitka spruce forests and ends at Cape Falcon, offering spectacular views of the coastline and Neahkahnie Mountain.
Manzanita Hiking Trails
Neahkahnie Mountain Trail
- Distance: 3 miles round trip (from the upper trailhead) or 8 miles round trip (from the lower trailhead)
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
One of the most iconic hikes on the Oregon Coast, this trail ascends Neahkahnie Mountain and rewards hikers with panoramic views of Manzanita Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The summit is a fantastic place for photography and whale watching.
Short Sand Beach & Elk Flats Trail (Oswald West State Park)
- Distance: 1.2 miles to the beach, additional miles if exploring Elk Flats
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Short Sand Beach (also called “Shorty’s”) is a popular spot for surfers and picnickers, while the adjacent Elk Flats Trail provides stunning ocean vistas and a chance to see wildlife such as elk and bald eagles.
Nehalem Bay State Park Trails
- Distance: Varies (up to 5 miles of trails)
- Difficulty: Easy
This relatively flat trail system offers great views of Nehalem Bay and the ocean. It’s a great spot for a relaxed hike, with opportunities to see deer, shorebirds, and even seals.
These trails provide a mix of coastal scenery, forested paths, and rewarding viewpoints, making them perfect for hikers of all experience levels. Whether you’re looking for a quick scenic stroll or a challenging summit climb, the Cannon Beach and Manzanita area has something for everyone!
