This Utah state park is hands-down our favorite in the state. It’s so fun to explore with kids—and even dogs. I love that the Goblin Valley “hikes” are so open-ended: No signs to stay on trail because you get to wander freely!

My kids are still talking about our visit to Goblin Valley, Utah. (They still giggle about how our dog, Finn, was afraid of the weird hoodoos! That’s right: Goblin Valley is a dog-friendly destination.)

Read on for the best things to do in this Utah park, including hikes, sightseeing and even disc golf. Want to stay overnight? Scroll down to the Goblin Valley camping section, including details on yurts.

Then grab your sunglasses and your sense of adventure—and get ready to explore among the goblins!

Goblin Valley Hikes + Hoodoos

Here are directions to the best Goblin Valley hikes:

1. Drive to the Goblin Valley observation point. Park.
2. Walk down the stairs into Valley 1. (The stairs are not steep but may pose a challenge to people with mobility limitations.)
3. Hike.

Really, it’s that simple.

Also, this trail-less hike is one of the reasons I love love love Goblin Valley State Park. You get to wander, explore and adventure all over the place.

As you walk through Goblin Valley, you’ll weave in and out of rock structures called hoodoos. So what is a hoodoo? It’s a column of rock eroded by the elements to leave behind a bumpy pinnacle or spire. Visitors to this area thought the lumpy rock formations looked like hunched creatures—which is how Goblin Valley got its name.

Goblin Valley was one of the best highlights of my family’s spring break road trip. My kids climbed all over hoodoos, played hide and seek in the maze of rock structures and climbed the rocky hills surrounding the hoodoo-filled valleys. Their adventuring hearts were full to the brim—as was mine.

We also loved scaling the cliffs that surround the valleys. My sure-footed mountain goats—I mean kids—scrambled up and down the hills, giving me only a few heart attacks. But boy the view from up there is epic!

If you check out a Goblin Valley State Park map, you’ll notice that it’s divided into three valleys. This is a little deceiving because one runs into the other. There are no formal barriers between valleys. They are marked this way to help visitors learn about the geologic features, since the areas are slightly different.

My best advice: Head down into the valleys and explore. It’s such a treat to wander without a trail—take advantage!

Remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace. Leave this piece of wilderness just as you found it.

Other Goblin Valley Hikes

We didn’t hike these designated Goblin Valley hikes when we visited. We were having too much fun exploring and climbing!

If you’re curious, here are details for other trails in the state park.

Carmel Canyon Trail, 1.5 miles round-trip. This loop includes a viewpoint overlooking Molly’s Castle, a huge outcrop that looks like—you guessed it—a castle or fortress. This Goblin Valley hike also includes short sections of slot canyons.

Entrada Canyon Trail, 3 miles out and back. This hike links the Goblin Valley campground to the Observation Point. The moderate hike includes up-close views of unusual hoodoos.

Curtis Bench Trail, 3 miles out and back. This trail takes you to higher elevations, giving you impressive views of both the Goblin Valley as well as outcroppings and mountains on all sides.

Goblin Valley State Park Viewpoints

There’s a good reason the main destination within Goblin Valley State Park is named simply Observation Point: It’s the easiest spot to get a sweeping view of the hoodoo valleys.

To get there, simply follow the state park road until it ends in a parking lot. Stretch your legs as you walk around the observation area. You can check out the valley below from several areas, including an overlook next to the restroom.

The main viewpoint is next to a sheltered picnic area. You can see people exploring the valleys below and get great panoramic photos.

You can hike to other viewpoints, too. You can check out another perspective from the Molly’s Castle Overlook about halfway through the Carmel Canyon Trail loop. There’s also an observation point at the end of the Curtis Bench Trail. Note, though, that the Curtis Bench trailhead is next to the Goblin Valley campground—not at the Observation Point parking lot.

Observation Point accommodations:

• Picnic shelter: This shaded area, full of picnic tables, is a great spot to eat in the shade.
• Restrooms: Make sure to use the bathroom here. There are no restrooms or other facilities in the valleys.
• Drinking fountain: Fill up your water bottles before starting your Goblin Valley hikes. You burn through more water than usual when hiking in the desert. Your dog can also get a drink of water here.
• Trash cans: Make sure to pack out all garbage from the valleys. Dispose of trash properly to keep this beautiful landscape pristine.
• Note: There is no cafe, restaurant or store. You can buy limited snacks and bottled beverages at the visitor center at the park’s entrance; otherwise, bring all food and drinks with you.

Goblin Valley Camping, Utah

Want a stunning home base to explore the San Rafael Swell and this hoodoo-filled park? You can post up in the Goblin Valley campground.

Hot summers and cold winters make spring and fall the best time for camping here.

You’ll want to plan in advance, as the campground commonly fills up. (It’s a small campground, making spots at an even greater premium.) You can reserve a campsite or a yurt at Reserve America up to six months in advance.

Goblin Valley Campground

The Goblin Valley Campground includes 24 campsites, a dump site, restrooms and a group site. Hot showers and flush toilets are available.

Sites include 10 tent sites and 14 RV sites. One thing I love about the Goblin Valley campground: Sites include a small shelter. These permanent structures provide shade and cover a picnic table—extremely welcome for hot, sunny days!

Campsites are nestled among rock formations and sandstone hills. They’re near trailheads, an OHV staging area and the disc golf course.

Goblin Valley campsites cost $35/night.

Goblin Valley Yurts

The Goblin Valley campground also includes two yurts. As you can imagine, these all-weather structures are in high demand, so reserve your Goblin Valley yurt well in advance.

The yurts are standard for what you’ve seen in other state parks. The round structures include:

• a bunkbed
• a futon
• table and chairs
• electricity

Yurts do not include linens, blankets or cooking supplies.

One thing I think is cool about Goblin Valley yurts: They include a little porch. I’ve never seen this in other state park yurts. The deck is a perfect spot to sit at night and stargaze.

Goblin Valley yurts cost $100/night.

Goblin Valley Disc Golf

My husband is a huge fan of disc golf, so when he found out there’s an epic Goblin Valley disc golf course—well, you can imagine how stoked he was.

We actually dropped him off at hole 1 to play while the kids, dogs and I explored the hoodoo valleys.

Hubs shared that this disc golf course is challenging and not ideal for beginners. You’ll tackle quite a lot of elevation change, with some pins situated atop stone spires. He got a lot of exercise hiking across the course and barely crossed paths with anyone. For such a unique course, the Goblin Valley disc golf is practically unused.

When we met up after his round, he was dusty, sweaty—and smiling like a maniac. He couldn’t get over what an amazing disc golf course was set up in this one-of-a-kind landscape.

More Goblin Valley State Park Photos

Want even more Goblin Valley State Park photos to tide you over until your own visit? I got you!

As you can see, Goblin Valley is a strange and beautiful place. I can’t wait for you to check it out for yourself.

Is Goblin Valley State Park worth visiting?

If you haven’t gathered by now, I adore Goblin Valley State Park. If you like the outdoors, I think you’ll love Goblin Valley, too! So in short, YES: Goblin Valley State Park is 100% worth visiting.

To recap, a few reasons why Goblin Valley should be on your Utah itinerary:

• It’s unlike anyplace else. The rock formations are so weird!
• Goblin Valley is like an outdoor wonderland for kids (and adults!). You can climb hoodoos, scale rock walls and wander to your heart’s content.
• Dogs are allowed. Unlike national parks, this state park welcomes pets.
• The park is beautiful. This otherworldly desert scenery is just breathtaking.
• Goblin Valley State Park is a bit off the beaten path. It’s much, much less crowded than nearby national parks.

Still have questions? Check out these FAQs.

Not yet ready to explore Goblin Valley? Pin this post for later! And if you’re in the area, make sure to check out my post on our other fave Utah state park, Dead Horse Point State Park!

The post Goblin Valley State Park, Utah Guide: Hikes, hoodoos, camping + more appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This Utah state park overlooks dramatic canyons and the Colorado River. The rock formations are stunning. The kid-friendly hiking trails are perfect for mountain goats—I mean children—who like a little scramble with their walk. And the mountain biking trails draw experts as well as families from all over.

Views from the visitor center and Dead Horse Point overlook alone are worth the short drive from Moab and Arches.

So if you’re looking for something to do in Moab that’s not a national park, check out Dead Horse Point State Park. The views are breathtaking. Then, once you catch your breath again, you can tell all your friends about this impressive park. They’ll be sure to thank you.

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Why do they call it Dead Horse Point?

Maxine and Edie were less than thrilled with the name of this Utah state park. The name is a bit grisly—especially when you hear the history behind it.

So why is Dead Horse Point named that?

Years ago, cowherds used to use the geography of the land to corral wild horses. They’d herd them to what’s now called Dead Horse Point, which is a small piece of land surrounded by sheer dropoffs. A narrow stretch of land—the Neck—connected this spot to the rest of the area. The cowherds would block the Neck so horses couldn’t escape.

The horses would be penned in by the natural landscape, enabling cowherds to select the horses they wanted to keep. Once they’d made their selections, they’d remove the obstacles and let the other animals run free.

Legend says that one day, cowherds forgot to take away the block. The horses weren’t able to get free. Supposedly, the horses were left without water and died.

Gruesome, I know.

I keep in mind that stories like these are often apocryphal—meaning they make good stories but aren’t necessarily rooted in fact. I don’t know if that’s the case with Dead Horse Point but I sure hope so.

Maxine and Edie just about revolted every time Hubs and I said the park’s name. Edie took it upon herself to rename the park. Now, in our family, this area is called The Dip. She chose that name because the land takes a big dip—thousands of feet down red cliffs to the valley floor. It’s a much nicer name, don’t you think?

Start at the Visitor Center

Right after you enter Dead Horse Point State Park, you’ll arrive at the visitor center. Insider, you’ll find postcards, gifts and books—the usual. You can even grab a drink and sit on the wide porch overlooking the canyons. The restrooms are also clean—ideal if you’ve been driving a while.

Those things aren’t this spot’s main draw, though.

Leave your car in the parking lot and go straight to the viewpoints.

These spots give you different views of the canyon. Look for the strata in the cliffs—the different layers of rock formed over millions of years. You can see layers of rock formed by petrified sand dunes and even sediments left behind by prehistoric oceans.

Erosion scooped and sculpted the landscape, leaving behind deep canyons, towering spires and high buttes.

A paved path winds along the rim. This is an easy walk for kids and dogs. I don’t believe the path is ADA accessible because it seemed steeper than is allowed in parts and there were cracks in the pavement here and there.

A few benches provide spots to rest and admire the views—or complain and refuse to go farther without M&M’s, as the case may be.

Dead Horse Point Overlook

Next, drive a little farther past the visitor center. Head to the Dead Horse Point Overlook to see the vast landscape spread out 2,000 feet below. You’ll see the Colorado River winding its way through the desert.

The Dead Horse Point Overlook is truly special because you can see nearly 360 degrees around you. Check out the different viewpoints around the overlook. No matter where you stand, you’ll catch breathtaking views.

On the west side of Dead Horse Point Overlook, a raised platform raises you even higher. You can peer almost straight-down into the canyon at the river. This is also an ideal place for a group photo.

You can continue hiking from Dead Horse Point Overlook. Stay on the side of the visitor center to catch the East Rim Trail or walk past the raised platform to connect to the West Rim Trail. (More on hiking below.)

The Dead Horse Point Overlook has plenty of shaded picnic tables and benches, making it an ideal stop for lunch. You can also use the restroom here.

Let the kids climb around on the rocks—but watch them closely. We kept Maxine and Edie away from the edge, which is unfenced. The fall would be catastrophic to say the least. Thankfully, large stone shelves and boulders away from the edge offer plenty of spots for rock climbing.

When you’re driving back toward the visitor center and state park exit, stop at a pullout along the road. Get out of the car for a moment to see the Neck, the narrow stretch of land that connects Dead Horse Point to the rest of the park. The Neck is only 30 yards wide! At this amazing spot, you can see canyons dropping off to your left and right.

You can also walk to these points from the parking lot at the Dead Horse Point Overlook.

Dead Horse Point State Park Yurts and Camping

Dead Horse Point camping is some of the most impressive in the area. Yurts and campsites are located on little hills, giving you an incredible vantage point.

It’s no wonder why this is some of the best camping near Moab, Utah!

My family didn’t camp at Dead Horse Point—this time. We stayed in nearby Moab, about 40 minutes away. A friend of mine camped with her family recently at this Utah state park, though, and she was generous enough to share her camping photos.

One thing I appreciate about Dead Horse Point State Park camping: Campsites are distributed among several campgrounds. That means you never feel crowded.

There are 64 sites total among three campgrounds: Kayenta, Wingate and Moenkopi. Campgrounds include tent sites, yurts, and partial hookup RV sites.

The Dead Horse Point yurts in particular are incredibly popular, so you’ll want to make reservations as soon as you can. Like many camping reservations, you can book a stay six months in advance. Any sooner than that and you’ll have to wait until the reservation system opens availability.

Click here to make camping reservations at Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab, Utah.

Dead Horse Point Hiking

It’s time to stretch your legs! Good thing Dead Horse Point hiking is so gorgeous.

Several hiking trails wind through Dead Horse Point State Park. It’s easiest to talk about them in two main parts: the East Rim Trail and West Rim Trail.

Hike on the side of the visitor center and you’re on the East Rim Trail. Dead Horse Point Overlook is the dividing line between it and the West Rim Trail.

The East Rim Trail seems to be more popular because you can easily start it from the visitor center—the first stop most visitors make.

The hiking trails involve stepping over (or even climbing) rocks along the clearly marked path. Watch for cairns to show you the way. Dogs are allowed on hiking trails, but bikes are not. (We didn’t hike much here because Luna, our 10-year-old Great Pyrenees, can’t navigate up and over rocks. Her ol’ hips aren’t what they used to be.)

Several spurs jut out from the East Rim and West Rim Trails. These spurs lead to overlooks for more gorgeous views of the canyons.

The West Rim Trail has more views of the Colorado River. It’s the longer of the two—3 miles compared to 1.5 miles. You can combine them for a Dead Horse Point Park hiking loop:

Begin at the visitor center. Walk 1.5 miles along the East Rim Trail. You’ll continue around the Dead Horse Point Overlook, connecting to the West Rim Trail. Keep right at the spur leading to Big Horn Overlook to return to the visitor center. This loop is less than 5 miles, though you will exceed that length if you hike the spurs to overlooks along the way.

In addition to the East and West Rim Trails, you can hike the Bighorn Overlook Trail and Desert View Overlook Trail. The Big Horn Overlook Trail is the least trafficked because it’s a bit out of the way. It’s a great hike if you’re camping in the Kayenta Campground: The trailhead is just past the campground.

Moab mountain biking – Utah

Some of the most popular mountain biking in Utah can be found at Dead Horse Point State Park. Trails wind through the park, taking you through gorgeous desert landscapes.

You’ll find trails beginner through advanced here, near Moab. Your best bet is to check out the map and look for the key on the bottom right.

Here are the mountain biking trails within Dead Horse Point SP:

As you can see, no single trail is particularly long. That’s why it’s common for people to combine trails to make a customized route.

When my family visited Dead Horse Point State Park, we didn’t bike any of the mountain bike trails. We saw plenty of other folks do so, though. We also saw plenty of kids riding the easier trails.

So if you’re looking for Moab mountain biking trails, don’t discount this scenic Utah state park.

Finally, consider some of the other mountain biking in Utah near Dead Horse Point. There are trailheads all along Highway 313. This is the road between Highway 191 (the road Moab and Arches are along) and Dead Horse Point.

Dead Horse Point with Kids

As you can see, I absolutely recommend visiting Dead Horse Point with kids. My girls loved this scenic alternative to Arches National Park.

Although national parks are much better known for their junior ranger programs, some state parks have their own versions. Good news: Dead Horse Point State Park has a junior ranger program, too!

Here’s how to participate:

Stop by the visitor center when you first arrive. A ranger inside will give each of your kids a paper booklet filled with activities.

Kids complete activities as they explore the park. Maxine and Edie got really into their junior ranger booklets!

When you’re ready to leave, stop by the visitor center again. Your kids will show their completed pages to a ranger. The ranger will lead them in saying a pledge, which centers around protecting outdoor spaces.

Then the kids officially become junior rangers—complete with a free badge!

Dead Horse Point State Park with Dogs

National parks, including Arches and Canyonlands, have strict policies about visiting with dogs. State parks are much more flexible.

That means Dead Horse Point State Park is dog-friendly!

Dogs are welcome along all this park’s walking trails, overlooks and other areas to explore. Dogs are not allowed on mountain biking trails.

Pets must be kept on-leash at all times. Please be respectful and clean up dog waste. Don’t leave animals in your car—vehicles can heat up quickly.

What to do if Arches is full

Dead Horse Point State Park is an excellent alternative activity if Arches National Park is full.

Less than a 40-minute drive from the entrance to Arches, this state park is much less popular—and a great option of you can’t get into the national park.

Folks familiar with visiting Arches National Park know that Arches closes when it reaches a maximum number of visitors. If that’s the case, don’t return to Moab. Instead, continue on to Dead Horse Point State Park.

You’ll get to explore another gorgeous outdoor area. It’s hard to feel disappointed when you’re taking in these views!

How to visit Dead Horse Point: The details

Now that you’re excited to visit, here’s what you need to know about coming to Dead Horse Point.

Have you ever been to Dead Horse Point State Park in Utah? Let me know in the comments!

If you’re adding it to your wish list of places to visit near Moab, pin one of these images for later!

Looking for more places to go? Check out my post on Valley of Fire in nearby Nevada.

The post Stunning Dead Horse Point State Park near Moab: Alternative to Arches appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

Just a half-hour drive from the Strip, this easy hike is 100% doable in a half-day. So if you want to spend part of the day at the pool or exploring the kid-friendly casino attractions, you still have plenty of time to hike the Kraft Boulders and Kraft Mountain Loop.

You’ll want to visit this spot even more if you’re into rock climbing. It’s a popular bouldering location in Las Vegas. You’ll see many people hiking in with crash pads—the portable pad rock climbers place under themselves while bouldering.

Read on for great hiking near Las Vegas at the Kraft Boulders and Kraft Mountain!

Kraft Boulders Hike

One day on our most recent Las Vegas trip, Edie had a cold and was not feeling hiking. In fact, she wasn’t feeling anything but sick. But we basically forced her to come on the Kraft Boulders hike—and we’re all glad for it!

Edie perked up immediately. She and Maxine are pretty much obsessed with climbing anything and everything, so the Kraft Boulders were right up their alley.

From the parking lot, start out along the trail, marked by a black metal National Conservation Lands sign. Walk about a quarter-mile to reach the base of Kraft Mountain.

Here, huge hunks of rock fell from the mountain over the ages. Rocks create a jumble of climbing opportunities. Maxine and Edie wasted no time in scaling boulders and trekking up the mountain.

The hike to the Kraft Boulders can be as long or as short as you want. You can continue down the trail, adjacent to Kraft Mountain, to boulders farther along. Or you can pause and explore around the first, enormous boulder you’ll see: a red hunk of mountain several stories high.

As you hike, keep an eye out for horseback riders. One incredibly friendly rider stopped near us so Maxine and Edie could pet his horse. That was the cherry on top of our beautiful Kraft Boulders hike!

Kraft Mountain Loop

For a longer hike near Las Vegas, continue along the Kraft Mountain Loop. This 3.5 mile hike is on the harder side of moderate and takes you all around the pink mountain. The hike gains just over 600 feet in elevation altogether.

The hike includes several scrambles and a few steep sections. If you complete the loop, you’ll be rewarded with impressive views—including toward the nearby Red Rock Canyon.

Know that the Kraft Mountain Loop trail is not well marked. It can be even more confusing to do this hike because there are several options for routes. I recommend downloading a detailed map onto your phone, or printing one, because cell service is unreliable here.

Bouldering near Las Vegas

Whether you’re a pro or you’re wanting to learn bouldering near Las Vegas, the Kraft Boulders are a great destination.

With so many boulders and rock formations, you’ll always be able to find an open rock or route. The problems (climbing routes) range from beginner to advanced. Bouldering is a great way to begin rock climbing because you don’t need as much gear. Just remember to always climb with a spotter and a crash pad below!

Bouldering etiquette applies at the Kraft Boulders, of course. Don’t cut in, interfere with or distract other climbers. And as always, respect the outdoors: Pack out everything, as there is no trash service in this Las Vegas bouldering site.

Other hiking near Las Vegas

If you’re into the outdoors, you should definitely go hiking near Las Vegas. The desert landscape is gorgeous in a way that’s completely different than our home base in the Pacific Northwest.

Hiking near Las Vegas is also an excellent alternative to the more typical Sin City activities (cough, cough). Hitting the trails is also a super kid-friendly activity, especially considering that casinos aren’t exactly kid central.

Want more trails after you hit up the Kraft Boulders and Kraft Mountain Loop? Check out these nearby hikes.

Red Rock Canyon

Mere minutes from the Kraft Boulders, the Red Rock Canyon scenic route loops through epic landscapes. Wonderful hikes branch off from the scenic road. The only bad thing is that you’ll have to choose where to stop and hike: You won’t be able to trek all of them in a day.

My entire family loved Red Rock Canyon. It’s amazing how much the scenery changes in just a few miles. Look one direction to see bright red rocks and another for white cliffs sprinkled with snow.

I recommend either Calico I or Calico II as some of the most iconic Red Rock Canyon trails.

Valley of Fire

My other favorite hiking near Las Vegas is in Valley of Fire State Park. Just an hour drive from the city, you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away. The stark landscape is crisscrossed with unforgettable hiking trails.

The Fire Wave Trail is #1 among our favorite Valley of Fire hikes. Most of the trails here are short and easy enough for kids and hikers without much experience. The incredible rock formations are unforgettable.

See my detailed post on Valley of Fire for more recommendations!

Directions from Las Vegas to Kraft Boulders

Here’s how to get from Las Vegas to the Kraft Boulders and Kraft Mountain Loop.

Drive west on US-95 N.

Take exit 81A onto Summerlin Parkway.

For 5.5 miles, continue along Summerlin Parkway / NV-613.

Take the 215-S exit onto the Bruce Woodbury Beltway.

Take exit 26 onto Charleston Blvd / NV-159.

Follow Charleston Blvd / NV-159 for 3.7 miles. Take a right on Calico Basin Blvd. (Calico Basin Blvd is the road after the turnoff for Red Rock Canyon Campground. If you see the entrance to Red Rock Canyon, you’ve gone too far.)

In this residential area, continue along Calico Basin Blvd. until it takes a sharp right at the Calico Basin Trailhead. Take a right here onto Calico Drive, then an immediate left to Sandstone Drive. Continue until the end of Sandstone. On the left, use the parking lot for the Kraft Boulders.

If the parking lot is full, you can park along the street—just pay attention to areas where this is allowed and where it is not.

Are you ready to check out this easy hiking trail near Las Vegas? Such a family-friendly trail is a great break from the lights and sights of Las Vegas. Pin this for later so you remember to check out the Kraft Boulders and Kraft Mountain Loop!

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Las Vegas isn’t typically known for its outdoor adventures, and that’s too bad. Because just outside the city, you can find epic landscapes.

You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to another planet when you’re surrounded by vibrant rocks and jagged cliffs. Thankfully, you won’t need intergalactic transport; you just need a rental car to visit Valley of Fire State Park.

Drive just an hour from the center of Las Vegas to these Valley of Fire hikes. You won’t regret it for a second.

Valley of Fire State Park

Valley of Fire State Park is one of the most beautiful destinations near Las Vegas, Nevada, you can hope to see. This park covers a stark area of the Mojave Desert. Its distinctive red, pink and striped rocks will take your breath away.

This Las Vegas state park isn’t actually in Las Vegas but is close enough for an easy day trip from the Strip. I think of it as the perfect antidote to the excesses of Las Vegas.

With the many Valley of Fire hikes, petroglyphs, rock formations and many other things to do, it’s like a breath of fresh air—literally.

Valley of Fire Hikes

There’s a lot to love about Valley of Fire State Park. First is its beauty. Second is the ease of getting to Valley of Fire from Las Vegas. (Yay convenience!) The third is that the park is full of hikes suitable for most visitors.

You see, many famous parks are crisscrossed by trails that are extremely challenging. That means that you have to dedicate hours (plus a lot of sweat and effort) to reach the most memorable areas. That’s not really feasible for a lot of visitors—especially kids.

Valley of Fire hikes, on the other hand, are mostly easy to moderate. You won’t be climbing a ton of elevation, and several are under 2 miles. (That’s a great length for my kids!)

Want to plan some breathtaking Valley of Fire hiking? Read on for descriptions of the best trails in this Nevada state park—and the best Las Vegas hikes you’ll find.

Fire Wave Trail

The Fire Wave trail is one of the most iconic Valley of Fire hikes. Don’t miss this trail!

You’ll hike over stone as well as a sandy trail. Along the route, see brilliant orange, red and striped sandstone. Follow yellow markers (and the rest of the hikers) to reach the famous Fire Wave.

Here are the must-know details for the Fire Wave Trail, impressive Valley of Fire hiking:

• 1.5 miles out and back
• Some elevation
• Easy to moderate trail
• Kid-friendly for children who have some stamina
• Sun exposure: Avoid hiking at midday

Rocks here are layered with iron and manganese, which account for the different colors of stripes. Wind, water and erosion create otherworldly shapes in the sandstone. The swirls look a bit like a chocolate-vanilla ice cream cone, twisted together. (The hot environment makes me want soft serve, I guess!)

The beginning of the trail is the most sandy section. Footing gets easier as you progress. You’ll need to walk over uneven stone, though, as you’re hiking over rock rather than a manicured trail.

After that, look for posts with a yellow flash on them to mark the trail. You can roam over the red stone and climb boulders, like my kids loved to do.

The Fire Wave is unmistakable. This incredible rock formation, which looks like striped taffy left to harden in a twisted mound, marks the end of the Fire Wave Trail.

Rainbow Vista Valley of Fire

To enjoy this Valley of Fire hike, park in the paved lot. Follow the well-used, sandy trail to the Fire Canyon overlook, which gives you impressive views of red sandstone rock formations. Take your time, as hiking through sand is more tiring than walking along pavement.

To reach the Rainbow Vista trail, turn off the Valley of Fire Highway onto Mouse’s Tank Road. Continue past the visitor center. Park in the lot on the right-hand (east) side of the road. There is a bathroom here; use the facilities before you hike because there is no toilet along the hike.

Here are the must-know details for the Rainbow Vista, a Valley of Fire hike:

• 1.2 miles out and back
• Flat and kid-friendly
• Sun exposure: Avoid hiking at midday

White Domes Valley of Fire Trail

To hike the White Domes Trail, turn off the Valley of Fire Highway onto Mouse’s Tank Road. Continue past the visitor center. Drive all the way to the end of White Domes Road, where you’ll park in a day use lot.

Some of the trail is sandy, which requires a bit more effort to walk across. The extra work is well worth it! You’ll hike past impressive red sandstone formations, some jutting up like mini-mountains and others stretching across the landscape.

About a third of a mile into the trail, you’ll come across “ruins.” These aren’t remains of prehistoric communities; they’re leftovers from a film set!

The White Domes trail leads you through a (very short) slot canyon in Valley of Fire. The narrows here wind you through a section of the trail where you can reach out and touch both sides of the canyon.

Here are the must-know details for the White Domes Trail, a Valley of Fire hike:

• 1.1 mile loop
• Flat and kid-friendly
• Sun exposure: Avoid hiking at midday

Valley of Fire Hikes: Safety Tips

Valley of Fire hikes are generally safe: Most have little elevation gain, and most trails are well marked. That said, you should still take precautions: Always know where you’re going (download maps or check at the visitor center).

In addition, whenever you’re trekking on Valley of Fire hikes, bring more water than you think you’ll need. Standard recommendations point to drinking about a liter an hour when you’re in the desert.

The dry desert air leaches water out of your body, and hiking in the desert will work up a sweat. You might not realize how much you’re sweating, though, because it may evaporate off your skin before you realize it. So pay close attention to your thirst and err on the side of drinking more than you think you need.

Take precautions against the sun, too. Lather up frequently with a high SPF sunblock, even in the winter. (We like this SPF 50, reef-friendly, delicious-smelling sunscreen. Even the kids like it better than most!) Wear a hat that covers your face and ears. And wear UPF clothing (like this super-light zip-up jacket with UPF 50, which comes in a ton of colors).

Nevada Petroglyphs: Atlatl Rock and Petroglyph Canyon Trail

Valley of Fire petroglyphs can be found near the park’s west entrance, at Atlatl Rock. You can see these 4,000-year-old Nevada petroglyphs up-close by climbing the stairs in the site.

Experts don’t know what the petroglyphs mean, but my kids loved guessing at what the symbols could represent. The big horn sheep are pretty clear!

Unfortunately, you’ll see vandalism alongside the petroglyphs. The insensitivity and disregard of vandals blows my mind. To preserve the petroglyphs, do not touch them or the surrounding rocks, and report any vandalism you see.

Atlatl Rock and the petroglyphs are just a short distance from the Valley of Fire campgrounds. Make sure you visit this ancient art!

You can see even more petroglyphs along a short hike called Petroglyph Canyon Trail. As its name suggests, the hike takes you through towering sandstone rocks that Native Americans etched with their art. This hike is just .75 miles—an easy hike with big payoff.

Watch for blackened areas on the rocks. These weren’t burned but rather have a patina, or layer, of stone where the iron minerals oxidized. Scraping away this top black layer shows the red and orange beneath. This is how the artists left their mark, literally, on the landscape.

Petroglyph Canyon Trail also takes you to Mouse’s Tank. This is where the rocks form a natural trough that holds water—quite the feat in the Valley of Fire desert! Do not drink from it—the water is definitely not potable. Mouse’s Tank is a neat feature along this trail, though.

Elephant Rock, Valley of Fire

Near the east Valley of Fire park entrance—the opposite end from Las Vegas—you’ll find Elephant Rock. This unusual rock formation is one of the most famous features of the state park.

You can’t park alongside the road right at Elephant Rock. To get there, park in the east entrance parking lot. Then walk .2 miles to the elephant-shaped rock. You’ll walk back the same way you came, so this kid-friendly Valley of Fire hike is easy.

Beehives Rock Formations

One of the first things you’ll see in Valley of Fire State Park is the rock formations known as the Beehives. They got the name from the holes in the boulders left by erosion.

The Beehives is my kids’ favorite place within the state park. Can you guess why??

That’s right: My mountain goats kids love scampering up the red rocks (and generally giving all the adults heart attacks). The ridges in the rocks make great hand holds and ledges for climbing several stories up.

Camping in Valley of Fire

Here’s the most important piece of info you need about camping in Valley of Fire: There are no reservations for either of the two campgrounds. There are 72 first come, first served campsites between two campgrounds.

Here’s the exception: If you bike in, the park will not turn you away, even if campgrounds are full. Park rangers will accommodate bicyclists regardless!

Visitors can stay at the Atlatl Rock Campground and Arch Rock Campground. Both campgrounds are surrounded by the red rocks that make this Las Vegas state park famous.

Valley of Fire campgrounds include these amenities:

• Dump station for RVs
• Potable water
• Showers
• Flush toilets in restrooms
• Grills
• Picnic tables
• Shaded areas
• Fire rings (obey any fire bans or restrictions that are in effect)

Camping in Valley of Fire is not free. Per-night fees depend on several factors:

• $20/night per car for Nevada residents
• $25/night per car for out-of-state visitors
• $30/night per RV site with hookups for Nevada residents
• $35/night per RV site with hookups for out-of-state visitors

When to visit this Las Vegas state park

To be completely honest, anytime is good to visit Valley of Fire because it’s just so beautiful. In short, Valley of Fire is worth it!

The park’s red rocks are prettiest in the morning and late afternoon. This is the time when the light best brings out the vibrant colors of the stone and rock formations. Don’t forget your camera!!

You’ll be more comfortable—and able to enjoy the red rocks and scenery—during certain times of the year. Continue reading for more on Valley of Fire weather and how to plan your visit.

Valley of Fire Weather

Since this Las Vegas state park is located in the desert, you’re right to assume the weather is overall dry and sunny. That said, weather fluctuates in this area—especially the swing from high to low temperatures.

Pay attention to weather forecasts when you visit this impressive landmark near Las Vegas. Here are the averages for Valley of Fire weather.

Spring temperatures in Valley of Fire State Park tend to be mild. In addition, this is when desert wildflowers bloom. If you visit in the spring, watch for blooming indigo bush, desert mallow and desert marigold. It’s an amazing sight to see flowers in the dry desert!

Summer is, as you can guess, very hot. It’s not uncommon for temperatures to pass 100 degrees in the summer, so plan your visit accordingly. You should hike in the morning or late afternoon to avoid peak temperatures. The sun is also incredibly strong during these months, so wear protective clothing, a hat, and sunscreen.

Fall is another wonderful time to visit. Temperatures are comfortable, and you still have plenty of sunlight during the day. (Remember, the park closes at sunset, and if you’re caught in the park after dark you could be fined.)

We have visited Valley of Fire in the winter two times. Temperatures can fluctuate quite a bit in the winter. It’s really important to wear layers! In the morning, we all bundled up in fleeces. By our afternoon Valley of Fire hiking adventures, we were in tank tops! One good thing about Valley of Fire hiking in the winter: You don’t need to worry as much about avoiding hikes in the middle of the afternoon. With the temperatures lower, you can explore all day long, rather than skipping hikes around noon.

Your Questions: Answered

Directions: Valley of Fire from Las Vegas

One of the best parts of visiting this amazing destination is how close it is to Las Vegas! At only an hour from the Strip, Valley of Fire is one of the best day trips from Las Vegas.

If you’re renting a car, this is easy peasy. (I do not recommend paying for a Lyft or Uber to take you. Not only will that be insanely expensive, but you will also be stranded in the park with no return ride.)

Directions to Valley of Fire from Las Vegas are straightforward.

1. Travel north on I-15N / US 93N toward Salt Lake City for a half-hour
2. Take exit 75 toward Valley of Fire / Lake Mead, onto Valley of Fire Highway
3. Travel approximately 15 minutes along Valley of Fire Highway. You will arrive at the west park entrance, where you will pay entry fees.

The last step for directions to Valley of Fire: Hit the road and go! Seriously, you won’t regret it. And if you’re anything like me, you’ll look back on these photos as one of the best things to do in Las Vegas!

The post Las Vegas: Valley of Fire Hikes, Petroglyphs + More (1 hour from the Strip!) appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

I’d ask you to imagine Smith Rock’s red cliffs, meandering river, steep trails and arid landscape—but thanks to these photos, you don’t have to overwork your pretending muscles. (If you’re like me, those muscles might be tired from a day of playing dinosaurs with your kids.)

Of course, photos barely do Smith Rock State Park justice. That’s why you need to go in person, of course!

In this post, I’ll cover all the things to do in this amazing Central Oregon destination:

• Smith Rock hikes
• Camping
• Rock climbing
• Weather and when to visit
• Other things to do in Terrebonne, OR
• And the logistical details you need to make the most of your trip to Smith Rock State Park

I can’t wait to share this magical place with you.

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Smith Rock State Park hikes

Smith Rock State Park became famous in the 1980s for its rock climbing. This incredible Central Oregon destination is home to equally impressive trails for both littles’ legs and those of us looking for a strenuous trek.

Misery Ridge Trail

Smith Rock SP’s most famous trail is Misery Ridge. As you can guess from its name, this 2-mile hike is strenuous, but don’t let that scare you away. The steep ascent takes you to the crag’s summit and offers truly incredible views.

Want to know what you’re up against? You can watch hikers tackle the steep incline of Misery Ridge from the parking areas.

If you do opt for this iconic Smith Rock hiking trail, keep an eye out for rock climbers. They climb many of these spires and cliff faces, including the famous Monkey Face. You will also want to bring your hiking poles.

Most folks create a loop with the Misery Ridge Trail and the River Trail. This common loop is less than 6 miles in length.

You can also create a loop from Misery Ridge to Summit Ridge Trail. This is a longer and less trafficked route of less than 8 miles.

River Trail

Smith Rock’s River Trail winds along the Crooked River with sheer cliffs rising up around you. This trail is easy, overall: Once you reach the river, it remains fairly flat. The exception: Toward the beginning of the hike, one short steep part—the Chute—will feel more challenging for littles, people with limited mobility and inexperienced hikers.

Catch the path down to the River Trail from the main parking area. Pass the primary viewpoint (just downhill from the restrooms), then watch the righthand side of the trail for a sign pointing you to the River Trail.

Other Smith Rock hiking trails

Hiking trails crisscross and loop around the state park. You can find one to meet your mood and needs, from a leisurely stroll to a more intense climb.

Check out the Homestead Trail and Canyon Trail.

If you want more ideas, check out my post on the best things to do in Central Oregon, including my favorite hikes.

Smith Rock State Park camping

Smith Rock State Park camping is limited. One walk-in campground, The Bivouac—nicknamed The Bivy—is off the road just before you pass the park’s welcome sign. You’ll need to walk a short ways with your gear to reach the campground.

Campers are allowed in tents only—park rules prohibit RVs or sleeping in your vehicle. Campsites are loosely defined. You’ll pretty much set up tent in the grass where you can find some space. There aren’t a lot of trees to offer privacy, but the incredible views of Smith Rock and the Crooked River more than make up for that.

These coveted Smith Rock camping spots are first come, first serve. That means they don’t take reservations. If you do find a place, you can buy a camping permit at the automated machine in the main visitor area. Camping here costs $8 per person per night.

Campfires are prohibited at Smith Rock because of its sensitive high desert ecosystem and the risk of wildfires. The site does provide restrooms, potable water and showers.

As of publication of this article, the Smith Rock camping site is not open because of COVID-19.

Smith Rock climbing

Back in the 1980s, intrepid athletes pretty much invented modern-day rock climbing here at Smith Rock. Now there are more than 2,000 routes on the park’s spires, rock faces and columns.

Monkey Face is Smith Rock’s most famous rock climbing spot. When seen in profile, it’s remarkable how much like a monkey it resembles!

I am definitely no rock climbing expert. If you feel confident to climb here on your own, you might want to get a copy of a Smith Rock climbing guide first.

I don’t have firsthand experience with guides, but you can check out some rock climbing guide services here.

Note that some routes, such as First Kiss, are closed from January through August to protect nesting birds.

If you’re looking to watch rock climbers, the Phoenix Buttress along the River Trail is prime viewing.

When to visit: Smith Rock weather + more

Smith Rock State Park is open year-round—and can be explored any time of year!

We love visiting Smith Rock when it’s warm and cold. Know that summer temperatures top 100 degrees so plan accordingly. You’ll want to bring a hat, more water than you think you’ll need and lots of sunscreen.

In the summer, the best weather at Smith Rock is in the morning, before the rocks heat up. You’ll enjoy hiking and exploring more if you’re not sweating buckets.

Winter weather at Smith Rock can vary widely. One January weekend, the kids and I took a day trip there and were walking around in short sleeves. The following weekend, we visited and found 6 inches of snow on the ground!

You can definitely enjoy Smith Rock State Park in cold weather, but you’ll need to take extra safety precautions. Hike with traction cleats on your shoes (such as Yak Trax) so you don’t slip on ice.

You’ll also need to use your best judgment for which Smith Rock hikes to tackle. Personally, I wouldn’t hike Misery Ridge Trail if conditions were icy. The River Trail doesn’t have steep dropoffs, though, so I’m ok with that hike in winter weather.

Other things to do in Terrebonne, Oregon

Smith Rock State Park is a 5-minute drive from Terrebonne, Oregon. Highway 97 runs right through the center of town; you’ll turn onto Smith Rock Way to get to the park.

Terrebonne, Oregon isn’t technically a town: It’s an unincorporated area of just over 1,000 residents. It’s livelier than you might think, though, because it acts as a hub for folks going to Smith Rock.

The area around Terrebonne is mostly ranch land. In fact, our favorite thing to do in Terrebonne (besides go to Smith Rock) is meeting the alpacas at Crescent Moon Ranch. Buy feed for $5 a bag and spoil those alpacas! (Pro tip from a mama who has been there: I ended up buying Max and Edie two bags each so they’d have enough to feed the alpacas at the end of the trail.)

Just outside of town off Highway 97, the Peter Skene Ogden viewpoint is another good thing to do in Terrebonne. Walk just a short way from the parking lot to see the Crooked River below.

A super-cool historic bridge crosses the river here, and you’ll catch an incredible view from this park. A safety warning: Keep your kids and dogs really, really close. People and animals have fallen hundreds of feet into the river here.

If you’re looking for Terrebonne, Oregon restaurants, I recommend stopping at the Terrebonne Depot. This restaurant is a converted railroad depot. The 100+ year old historic building was restored, and owners employed local artisans to add contemporary touches.

If you need coffee quickly, stop at Java Rock Espresso. This coffee stand is right off Highway 97 so it’s a quick stop. My kids like to get hot cocoa here after a day of exploring Smith Rock Oregon.

Must-know details to visit Smith Rock State Park, Oregon

Smith Rock SP is open for day use year-round. You’ll need to pay a $5 day use fee or display your annual Oregon State Parks pass.

You can park in a few different places within the park. An overflow lot will be on your lefthand side as you drive into the park. Parking spots line the road within the main area of the park. And before you get to the dead-end turnaround, you’ll see a grass field on the righthand side that’s been turned into a car lot.

Park rangers patrol the area frequently, and they do give out tickets for not having a park pass or for parking in undesignated areas.

Smith Rock State Park is very popular, especially in the summer and on weekends. Get here early to increase your chances of finding a parking spot within the park.

Like the rest of Oregon’s High Desert, Smith Rock State Park is home to wildlife. Watch for snakes, especially if you or your kids explore the hidey holes in some of the rock faces.

Are you mega excited to check out this Central Oregon gem? Save one of these pins for your future trip. Also, if you’re looking for even more attractions, check out the best things to do in Central Oregon in my guide to this unique area!

The post Stunning Smith Rock State Park, Oregon: hiking trails + camping near Bend appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This out-of-the-way wonder is a stretch of underground tunnel with several openings at the top of the cave. For an hour or two each day, sunlight streams in, leaving spotlights on the cave floor.

Skylight Cave, Oregon isn’t convenient; you have to drive outside Sisters, OR on bumpy forest roads to get there. But once you arrive, it’s totally easy to explore this small Oregon cave. 

And when you time your visit right, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking sight. 

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Exploring this Oregon cave near Sisters, OR

When you reach Skylight Cave, you’ll climb down a metal ladder bolted to the stone. (It’s really sturdy, I promise!) This takes you into a natural basin between the two sections of the cave.

Don’t forget your flashlight!

With the ladder at your back, if you turn right, you can walk less than a quarter-mile through this underground tunnel. The ground is uneven, and you’ll have to climb over some stones. The ceiling is very low in a few parts.

You’ll soon reach a dead end. I recommend going this way first if you’re early to the cave, or if there are more people than you’re comfortable with in the other part of Skylight Cave.

To see the star attractions, turn left.

Beams of light in Skylight Cave, Oregon

When you turn left from the ladder, you’ll walk into the main part of Skylight Cave. Step over uneven, rocky ground and you’ll soon reach an open cavern. Here is where Skylight Cave gets its name: Three holes in the cave ceiling let in sunlight from about 8 – 10am during the summer.

This “room” is the largest in the small Skylight Cave underground system. Walk to one side and then the other to get a 360-degree view of the sunbeams. You can see them from every angle. 

Chances are, other visitors will be in the cave with you. I found that people were pretty good at taking turns to get close to the sunbeams. 

Some folks took those iconic standing in light photos or the ones that look like they’re catching sunlight in their hand. Others (like me) simply enjoyed the streams of light from a distance. 

Photography tips to take pictures of cave sunbeams

It’s not easy to take photos inside a cave!

If you’re looking to capture truly amazing photos, you’ll need a tripod. (I own and love this budget tripod). It’s still not easy, though. You’ll have to set up in the dark (of course) and the ground is uneven, making it tricky to get your tripod stable.

If you’re not bringing a tripod, I still have some photography tips for you.

1. Do not take a photograph on auto mode. This will use the flash and blind everyone! On an iphone, click the lightning bolt icon to turn off flash. On a DSLR, use manual mode or shutter speed mode.
2. Adjust your DSLR’s ISO to the highest it can go. This will help you capture more light.
3. Adjust your DSLR’s shutter speed to very slow—i.e. 1/80. This will require your aperture to be set to the widest it can—4.5 or whatever your lens’ limit. You’ll need to take a few practice shots to adjust, getting your settings right.
4. Create a “tripod” with your body. As you hold the camera, tuck your elbows against your torso, which makes your upper body more stable. If you’re kneeling, rest your elbow on your knee, which also makes you more stable.
5. Snap a photo at the end of an exhale. (Yep, your breathing jiggles the camera, too!) This will minimize movement, helping you get a crisper, clearer photograph.

Must-know details to visit Skylight Cave

Flashlights:  The flashlight on your cell phone is straight-up not strong enough. You need at least one legit flashlight to explore Skylight Cave, Oregon. 

I recommend bringing a MagLight or something similar. It’s best to bring a second, backup flashlight as a precaution.

Bottom line: You don’t want to trip or twist an ankle because you didn’t bring a decent flashlight. Come prepared.

Courtesy in the cave: When you’re next to the sunbeams, do your best to keep your flashlight off (as long as it’s safe). That way the flashlight won’t interfere with other people’s enjoyment of the skylights. 

Animals: No pets are allowed inside Skylight Cave. (Even if they were, I don’t know a lot of dogs that could climb the ladder down!)

Food: No eating inside the cave system.

Time to hike Skylight Cave: You’ll probably need 20-40 minutes to explore the cave system. The underground tunnels themselves are quite short but you’ll want to hang out and admire the sunbeams for a while!

Directions to Skylight Cave, Oregon

If you want directions to Skylight Cave, read on—and print them out! You’ll likely lose service on this drive.

Secondly, make sure your car has decent clearance. You’ll be driving over bumpy forest roads that are minimally maintained. I drove in my Forester and had zero problems. I also saw sedans making the drive.

Here are directions to Skylight Cave:

Directions to Skylight Cave, Oregon

Print

Skylight Cave is an epic, out of the way cave in Central Oregon. But you'll need to look up—and print—directions before you go. Here's how to get to Skylight Cave, Oregon near Sisters and Bend, OR.

Instructions

1. From Highway 126/20, turn south onto McAllister Road. This is directly across from the sign to Camp Sherman. If you're coming from Eugene, you'll turn right onto McAllister; if you're coming from Sisters, you'll turn left onto McAllister.
2. After a quarter-mile, turn right onto Forest Road 2061.
3. Continue 6 miles down Forest Road 2061. You'll pass many turn-offs—some are private land, some are unmarked. Don't turn onto any of these.
4. Look for a wide clearing with trees. Continue downhill around this clearing.
5. Shortly after you pass the clearing, turn left at the fork onto Forest Road 1028.
6. After about a half-mile, turn left onto Forest Road 260. This turns into 2060. The road gets extra-bumpy here.
7. Continue on 260/2060 for about a mile. Look for several unpaved, dirt parking areas on either side of the road. Park in one of these.
8. Continue by walking; Skylight Cave is on your right. You'll see a wooden announcement sign and a visitor's book. You made it!

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  Our go-to Oregon hiking book
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Did you try this? What did you think?

Were these instructions helpful? Be a gem and share this info with someone else who could use it!

I’m curious: Have you ever explored an underground cave system? Would you??

PS – Want more? Check out my post on exploring Lava River Cave in Central Oregon near Bend—only an hour away.

The post Skylight Cave Oregon: An off-the-beaten-path gem near Sisters + Bend OR appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

In fact, all these must-dos add up to a bit of overwhelm if you’re planning an Oregon Coast vacation. Where should I go? you might be wondering. Which Oregon Coast towns should I visit? What Oregon Coast hikes should I plan? What about the beaches, the sand dunes, the shipwrecks?

You might want to ask a local for their recommendation. If you’re fresh out of besties who live in Oregon, allow me to stand in to give you advice from a local.

(I grew up in Oregon and have been going to the Oregon Coast since I was 2. I now live outside of Portland, OR with my family and rescue dogs, and we head to the beach as often as we can—sometimes several times in a month.)

So if you want tips and recommendations for things to do on the Oregon Coast, you’ve come to the right place. Well, you’ve come to the right place on the internet. The truly right place, as you’ll agree once you read this post, is the Oregon Coast.

The Best Oregon Coast Towns

Up and down the Pacific Ocean, you’ll find sweet Oregon Coast towns: Little communities that welcome visitors but have their own local feel, too.

With so many Oregon Coast towns to travel to, the choices can feel overwhelming. But each one offers something a little different. Read on to see where you’ll go on your next Oregon Coast vacation.

Florence, Oregon

Just an hour from Eugene and two hours from Salem, Florence sits at the connection between the Siuslaw River and the Pacific Ocean. This rich estuary habitat means tons of wildlife, from sea lions to sandpipers. There’s plenty for humans to do, too!

One of the reasons I love Florence, Oregon is that it has a small town feel—especially historic Old Town, which is the heart of the visitor-friendly city. Pretty much everything else, from restaurants to hotels, lie along Highway 101—the main road that runs through Florence.

The wide, long beaches here are wonderful to walk, but this Oregon Coast town is best known for its sand dunes. Cross the Siuslaw River to reach the sand dunes at South Jetty or drive a few miles south to Honeyman State Park to play on these mountains of sand.

For all the details you need, including what to do and where to eat, see my guide to Florence, Oregon.

Newport, Oregon

Growing up, my family and I usually went to Florence when we visited the Oregon Coast. Occasionally, though, we’d head to Newport, OR and it was always a really big deal.

Newport still holds a special place in my heart.

This coastal city is well known for its fishing. Visitors who prefer the DIY route can head out to see to catch their own salmon, halibut and Dungeness crab. Excellent seafood restaurants and shops will serve you, too (without the seasickness!).

Newport is also a science town. It’s home to an Oregon State University marine research center (which is free to visit) as well as the Oregon Coast Aquarium. And don’t forget to save time for this Oregon Coast town’s phenomenal beaches.

Astoria, Oregon

Technically, Astoria, Oregon isn’t on the Oregon Coast; it lies on the Columbia just upriver from where it connects to the Pacific Ocean. But just about everyone thinks of Astoria as an Oregon Coast town—one with its own unique feel.

Astoria was a fishing and canning city. It holds tight to these roots, showing off its history at museums and preserved docks. In fact, Astoria has the most museums of any Oregon Coast town, as well as boutique shops and antique stores.

A walkable trail winds from east to west along the Columbia River. (You can also take the trolley here!) Excellent restaurants offer views of the Columbia as well as delicious seafood and wine from nearby wine regions.

A 15-minute drive will take you to one of the nearby beaches, such as Warrenton or, my favorite, Fort Stevens. (It has a real-live shipwreck on the beach!)

Want to know more? Click over to my comprehensive post on things to do and where to stay in Astoria, Oregon.

Manzanita, Oregon

Fewer than 700 people live in Manzanita, Oregon, which means it definitely qualifies as a sweet small town on the Oregon Coast. It’s less popular and trafficked than other Oregon Coast towns—read: fewer tourists—which can make for a quieter Oregon Coast vacation.

Come for wine tasting, local food or just a stroll on the beach.

For more details, read my full post on visiting Manzanita, Oregon.

Cannon Beach, Oregon

Cannon Beach, OR is one of the most popular Oregon Coast towns. It’s an easy drive from Portland, which makes it a convenient destination. Its location also makes it crowded, especially during the summer and on sunny weekends.

Cannon Beach is most famous for—you guessed it—its gorgeous beach. At low tide, the beachfront becomes an almost never-ending stretch of flat sand.

Haystack Rock is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Oregon. The huge hunk of basalt is home to birds, including tufted puffins, and other wildlife. At low tide, walk right up to towering Haystack Rock, where you can look for sea stars, barnacles and anemones. (In fact, I have Haystack Rock tattooed on my left arm!)

This Oregon Coast town may be busy, but it has just about anything a visitor would want to do, eat and explore. There’s a reason it’s so popular: Cannon Beach is a wonderful destination.

Depoe Bay, Oregon

Depoe Bay, OR has a few claims to fame: It’s the most popular whale watching town on the Oregon Coast, and it has the world’s smallest navigable harbor. Stats aside, this small town and its rugged landscape make it a lovely destination on your Highway 101 road trip or Coast vacation.

Whale watching should definitely be on your Depoe Bay bucket list. Check out the low-key Whale Watch Center, where experts will give you pointers on what to look for. You can also break out the binoculars as you walk along the sea wall. (Just watch out: At high tide and during stormy weather, you might get sprayed by the surf spouting up over the walkway!)

Whale watching charters also leave from Depoe Bay. You’re likely to spot one, for example one of the area’s resident gray whales that live here March through December.

You’ll also want to stroll along the sidewalk built right alongside the coastal cliffs that look out onto the Pacific Ocean. It’s the only of its kind on the Oregon Coast.

Seaside, Oregon

Seaside, OR feels the most like an East Coast beach spot of all the other Oregon Coast towns. A flat boardwalk stretches alongside several miles of flat beach, where folks stroll and bike.

Although Seaside is a busy coastal town, similar to Cannon Beach, its huge swath of sand makes it feel less crowded.

My kids particularly love the carousel in Seaside and the swing sets right on the beach. There’s something super-special about swinging with the sea breeze blowing through your hair!

If you’re looking for shopping, check out the outlet mall in Seaside. Famous brands, including Nike and Columbia, sell discounted clothes and gear.

Rockaway Beach, Oregon

Rockaway Beach, Oregon is a little town—with plenty of sand. 7 miles of beach stretch the length of the town, but that’s not the only thing that makes Rockaway Beach, OR special.

Ride a steam train to nearby Garibaldi, OR. Walk among enormous old growth trees along the trails. Even take your chances of meeting the town’s ghost, Roger, at Grumpy’s Cafe! (Roger is usually shy when lots of customers are around, but it’s always possible to witness the ghost knock something off a shelf or turn the faucet off.)

Yachats, Oregon

Blink and you might miss the teensy tiny town of Yachats, Oregon. But you’ll want to keep a keen eye out for this Oregon Coast town on Highway 101: Its adorable charm and dramatic landscape make it well worth a visit.

The main street area of Yachats, OR is walkable, making it easy to bop between shops, restaurants and the bakery. (YUM don’t miss the bakery!)

This Oregon Coast town does have sand beaches, but when you drive a short way south on Highway 101 you’ll find dramatic cliffs and rugged rocks. Devil’s Churn and Thor’s Well are a short drive from Yachats, as is Cape Perpetua, where you’ll find hiking trails and one of the best views of the Oregon Coast.

Read my full post on Yachats, Oregon for more details!

Pacific City, OR

Pacific City, OR on the Northern Oregon Coast is best known for the Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area—but that’s not all. This little town is also famous for its historic dory fishing fleet. In fact, you can watch independent fishermen launch their dory from just a few steps away on the Pacific City beach. You can also eat the day’s catch in the town’s local seafood restaurants.

Just off the beach, you’ll see Haystack Rock. This is confusing because the Haystack Rock that everyone knows and loves (and that graces so many Oregon Coast landscape photos and postcards) is in Cannon Beach. I guess the Pacific Ocean is big enough for two Haystack Rocks. Watch the sun set behind this sea stack or admire it from the patio of Pelican Brewing. (You might also catch a beautiful sunrise like I did on this day!)

Pacific City is also well known as an Oregon Coast surfing town. It’s not ideal for beginners, but a longboard surfing competition is held here.

My favorite thing to do in Pacific City is relax on the beach at Bob Straub State Wayside. This gorgeous stretch of beach offers a view of Haystack Rock in the distance (and plentiful parking!). A point of detail: Weather like we had in Pacific City recently is not typical. It’s always beautiful—but not always warm enough to comfortably swim!

Check out my guide to Pacific City!

The Best Oregon Coast Hikes

The Oregon Coast is gorgeous. What better way to see it than hiking its many trails? (That’s what we locals do!)

These are a few of the best Oregon Coast hikes, in my humble opinion. They’ll take you to waterfalls, burbling creeks, secluded beaches—even a suspension bridge 100 feet off the ground!

Want even more recommendations? We use and swear by William Sullivan’s Oregon Coast hiking guide (affiliate link). I buy it as a welcome-to-Oregon gift for almost any friend who moves to my home state!

Read on for highlights of the best Oregon Coast hikes.

Drift Creek Falls

One of Oregon’s most famous hikes, the Drift Creek Falls trail takes you to a dramatic waterfall and suspension bridge. About 40 minutes from Lincoln City, Oregon, this easy 3-mile hike takes you through dense forest.

At the halfway point of the out-and-back trail, you’ll cross Drift Creek 100 feet up. The suspension bridge sways a bit as you walk but don’t worry, it’s safe!

Cross the bridge for the best views of Drift Creek Falls.

The trailhead gets quite busy, so morning hikes will feel more secluded. Wear layers, as you might feel chilled on this Oregon Coast hike.

Read my full post on hiking Drift Creek Falls for more details.

Sweet Creek Falls

Just outside Mapleton and about a half-hour inland from Florence, Oregon, you’ll find the Sweet Creek Falls trailhead. This easy Oregon Coast hike takes you along Sweet Creek. The showstopper is a four-tiered waterfall. The layers look a bit like a Pacific Northwest wedding cake!

Small waterfalls pop up along the entire hike. The trail is narrow in parts (bring your mask!) and some parts include metal grate footpaths (which my dog Finn didn’t love).

On a warm day, walk down one of many short spurs to the water. You can play and splash to cool off.

Aim to hike Sweet Creek Falls in the morning. This is a popular trail and gets quite busy later in the day. Aim to arrive at the trailhead by noon at absolute latest.

Note: Sweet Creek Falls escaped a 2020 fire near Mapleton, OR. You’ll likely see burned forest on your drive to this Oregon Coast hike, but the trail is intact and safe.

Saddle Mountain

Not for the faint of heart, Saddle Mountain is a strenuous and steep Oregon Coast hike about 40 minutes inland from Seaside, OR. The 4.5 mile out-and-back trail takes you to the top of Saddle Mountain, where on a clear day you can see the ocean to the west and Mt. St. Helens to the northeast.

Saddle Mountain gets particularly busy during May and June, when wildflowers bloom across the mountain. The hike is gorgeous at any time of year, though.

Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes. The trail gains more than 1,600 feet in a few miles, and some parts of the trail take you over loose rocks.

Note: As of the time I wrote this, the Saddle Mountain trail is closed because of COVID-19 restrictions.

Hobbit Trail

Just north of Heceta Head and 20 minutes outside Florence, Oregon, you’ll find the strangely named Hobbit Trail. Tolkien’s imagined characters would have an easier time than you and I hiking Hobbit Trail: Parts of this short Oregon Coast hike take you through tunnel-like sections of trees better suited for hobbits than fully grown humans.

We’ll just have to duck our heads to get under low-hanging branches.

This short hike takes you to Hobbit Beach. The trail itself is mostly flat, ideal for inexperienced hikers and kids. (Just keep an eye out for tree roots; you don’t want to twist an ankle.)

Hobbit Trail gets crowded, so aim for hiking this in the morning or during the week. The beach is best at low tide, so try to time your visit to coincide.

Munson Creek Falls

Nearly no one has ever seen Munson Creek Falls, the highest waterfall on the Oregon Coast. That’s because the Munson Creek Falls trailhead is tucked away off the beaten path.

Unfortunately, the second half of this trail is currently closed, so you won’t get terribly close to the 319-foot-high falls. That said, this easy hike is just over a half-mile so is great for kids.

Find the Munson Creek Falls trailhead 25 minutes south of Tillamook, Oregon.

Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge

The Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers a walk, not so much a strenuous trek. But don’t skip this gorgeous Oregon Coast hike just because it doesn’t get your heart pumping. The views and wildflowers will earn a place in your heart, too!

The Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge lies about halfway between Tillamook and Lincoln City, Oregon. This off-the-beaten-path natural area is off most people’s radar. That’s why when we went on a summer weekend, we only saw a few people the whole time we were there.

The wildlife refuge is a popular spot for bird watching. Its protected status means it’s paradise for animals—except dogs. (You’ll have to leave your pups at home, as they’re not allowed inside the refuge.)

Start your hike by walking through the field to the observation deck. (Keep an eye out for passing whales in the Pacific Ocean!)

Then head to the Two Rivers Nature Trail. This easy 2.2 mile hike takes you through forests and wildflower meadows. You’ll also see the confluence of the Nestucca and Little Nestucca Rivers. The two rivers, combined with the Pacific Ocean, create a rich habitat teeming with birds, amphibians, fish and even elk.

Fair warning: Mosquitoes also like this habitat. We didn’t have any problem with bugs but I’ve heard others complain. Bring bug spray just in case.

Devils Punchbowl at low tide

This Oregon Coast hike is more of a beach walk and exploration than a strenuous hike, but it still deserves a spot on your list of things to do on the Oregon Coast.

Plenty of folks visit Devils Punchbowl, which lies between Lincoln City and Newport, OR. But few people know you can hike inside this hollow rock formation at low tide!

At high tide, waves crash inside this bowl, which geologists think used to be a cave whose roof collapsed. But when the water recedes, you can get a totally different perspective by climbing over boulders and looking for sea anemones.

You better believe I wrote a full post on how to hike Devils Punchbowl, complete with must-know safety details.

Hart’s Cove and Chitwood Falls

The Oregon Coast can be dramatic and rugged—and so is the Hart’s Cove Trail. The steep and slippery trail doesn’t make this hike easy, but the payoff is well worth the effort.

After hiking through dense forest, you’ll arrive on a headland high above the Pacific Ocean. Walk through a prairie of native grasses to catch a glimpse of the waves crashing onto the cliffs in Hart’s Cove. You’ll also spy Chitwood Falls—it’s quite far away but still cool to see a waterfall plunging into the ocean.

You can get all the details about hiking Hart’s Cove at my post.

God’s Thumb hike

I love it when landmarks have colorful names—and I can imagine any deity would give this hike’s a thumbs up! (Sorry, so corny!)

God’s Thumb is an impressive, dramatic Oregon Coast hike in Lincoln City, OR. It’s popular so can get crowded, especially on weekends and during the summer. It’s easy to see why:

You’ll hike just over 2 miles to a headland that looks over the Pacific Ocean—and God’s Thumb, a piece of land that sticks up out of the water. Hiking that last stretch up the thumb is steep and arduous. But the 360-degree views are remarkable.

I recommend this hike even if you don’t go the very last stretch. (Full disclosure: I get crazy vertigo from high places so didn’t hike the last part.) It’s still incredible to see God’s Thumb from the headland.

More Oregon Coast Beaches

Oregon is the only state in the US that has designated every inch of its beaches as public land. That means that as long as you can access the sand by public means (i.e. not tromping through someone’s yard), you can explore to your heart’s content.

And you’ll want to explore as much as you can! Oregon Coast beaches are sometimes sandy and sometimes rocky, sometimes stormy and sometimes calm. They’re always gorgeous.

Keep reading for my favorite Oregon Coast beaches.

Oswald West State Park

Oswald West State Park, near Manzanita, OR, is home to one of my favorite beaches. You park just off Highway 101 and hike a half-mile along a creek to get to a short stretch of beach.

Climb around on heaps of driftwood or the basalt cliffs that hem in the half-mile of sandy beach. You can also do as the locals do and surf!

The Oswald West State Park beach is sheltered from the Oregon Coast’s strong winds, since the landscape is shaped like a horseshoe: The cliffs on either end of the beach block much of the wind. That means it’s warmer here than most Oregon Coast beaches!

Cobble Beach

The Oregon Coast has a variety of beaches—some of sand, others of rock—but I don’t know of another beach like this one. Cobble Beach is covered in round basalt stones that, when the tide pushes them together, make a noise almost like hoofbeats.

(Since this is a protected area, you can’t take stones off the beach.)

Find Cobble Beach in the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area ($7 admission for one day’s entry). You’ll be able to explore this unique beach, check out sea creatures at low tide and admire the Yaquina Head Lighthouse perched on the nearby cliff.

For additional details, click on over to my full post on Cobble Beach.

Strawberry Hill

Between Yachats and Florence, OR, you can pull over on the Strawberry Hill Wayside and explore this hidden gem of a beach. Nearly no one stops here, so you’re likely to have the beach (mostly) to yourself.

This section of the Oregon Coast is better known for the twisting Highway 101 and dramatic cliffs, but the beaches are stars in their own right.

Stairs lead down to the beach, so it is not an accessible trail.

Beverly Beach

Beverly Beach is one of the Oregon Coast’s iconic destinations. This beach is right off Highway 101, which makes it an ideal stop for an Oregon Coast road trip.

The thing that makes this Oregon Coast beach truly unique: fossils! See prehistoric creatures preserved in rocks and the cliffs at Beverly Beach State Park.

We also like this beach because of the creek that splits the beach. It’s fun to splash in, and the part of the beach north of the creek is always less busy.

Fogarty Creek

I adore Fogarty Creek in part because it’s an excellent agate beach! I’m a geek for anything related to natural science, so I love walking at a snail’s pace and looking for beautiful rocks.

Low tide is the best time to visit Fogarty Creek, as the beach gets pretty small when the water is high.

The best thing about this beach: Fogarty Creek is super fun to play in! Kids and dogs splash in the water here, which is warmer than the ocean.

This Oregon Coast beach is just a few minutes south of Lincoln City.

Neptune South Beach

If you’re not looking forward to enjoying the beach with hundreds of other people, Neptune South Beach should be on your itinerary.

Just south of Yachats, Neptune Beach mixes a flat sand beach with stones and basalt outcroppings. We love to explore and climb these rocks—basalt is pitted, making for excellent toe- and handholds!

Cummins Creek runs across the sand, and you might find agates here.

Things to do on the Oregon Coast

Exploring towns, hiking, walking beaches—you’ve already read about plenty of things to do on the Oregon Coast. But there’s more!

Whether you’re interested in aquariums, natural landmarks, or tide pools—or if you’re not quite sure what you want to do—this section will give you lots of ideas.

Get ready to fill up your Oregon Coast itinerary.

Oregon Coast Aquarium

We are members to the Oregon Coast Aquarium because my family and I *love* it! Take this local’s advice: The Oregon Coast Aquarium should definitely be on your itinerary, whether you’re taking a Highway 101 road trip or are staying in Newport.

We have a few favorite attractions. The Passages of the Deep tunnel takes you through three different undersea habitats. I could stay forever under the curved walls of water. But that wouldn’t leave time for the tidal touch pool, where you can make the acquaintance of anemones, sea cucumbers, sea stars and more.

To dive deeper into this fun thing to do on the Oregon Coast, read my local’s guide to the aquarium or our overnight sleepover experience at the aquarium.

Fort Stevens

We love camping at Fort Stevens State Park, but this destination also has a military museum. For a unique thing to do on the Oregon Coast, check out the Civil War-era fort and its artillery.

Typically, volunteers lead tours of the old military site. Guided tours are cancelled for the time being because of social distancing, but you can still explore via a self-guided tour.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

You already read about one-of-a-kind Cobble Beach; the Yaquina Head Lighthouse is in the same natural area. Split your time between exploring the rocks and admiring this historic lighthouse!

The 93-foot-tall lighthouse stands guard atop a basalt cliff. It overlooks sea rocks, which are protected wildlife refuges. Hundreds of sea birds come to nest here, but it’s a popular birding spot at any time of year.

COVID-19 update: As of the time of publication, the indoor areas at the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area are closed. Access to all outdoor areas, including Cobble Beach and the paths around Yaquina Head Lighthouse, is still open.

Hunt for agates

Pace of life is nutty for many of us: We rush, rush, rush. All that slows waaaaay down when you’re on the beach hunting for agates.

I love Oregon Coast agate beaches. I walk ever so slowly, keeping an eye out for these see-through, shiny stones. Agates feel more like glass than a typical rock, and they come in gorgeous colors.

You can hunt for agates at Agate Beach in Newport, Bella Beach near Lincoln City, Fogarty Creek near Depoe Bay and Agate Point near Yachats. You’re never guaranteed to find agates, which only adds to the charm and excitement of this fun thing to do.

On a recent trip to the Lincoln City area, one day I didn’t find a single agate. The very next day I found agates—in the same spots I was looking the day before—including some almost the size of my palm!

Devils Punchbowl

You already read about hiking into Devils Punchbowl at low tide. Whether you’re more of a looker than a hiker, or you visit this Oregon landmark at high tide, you may just check out Devils Punchbowl from above.

The best time to check out Devils Punchbowl is at high tide or during stormy seas. That’s because the waves crash into this natural rock formation, sending spray into the air (and sometimes onto onlookers!).

If you’re on a Highway 101 road trip, this is an excellent stop. It’s just a few minutes from the highway and has several picnic tables. Devils Punchbowl is a wonderful view to watch while eating lunch!

Thor’s Well

Have you ever seen the movie How to Train Your Dragons 3? Even if you haven’t, you can imagine the entrance to the dragons’ hidden world, where the sea cascades into a hole in the ocean. Got a good mental picture? Then you’ve just visualized Thor’s Well.

This dramatic destination near Yachats, OR lives up to its Nordic namesake. Just like Thor, the god of thunder, this unique landmark is most exciting during storms.

At high tide or during stormy seas, watch as the waves pummel the rock formations around this area. Water crashes over the stone—then drains into the center of a gaping hole. Thor’s Well seems to swallow the sea itself, never sating its thirst.

Thor’s Well is best seen at high tide. Plan to visit about a half-hour before high tide so you time your arrival right.

Explore tide pools

One of the best things to do on the Oregon Coast is explore tide pools! At low tide, you can spot creatures typically only seen at aquariums.

An up close and personal look at sea anemones, sea stars, sea urchins, crabs and fish is such a unique experience. (Be sure to look only and never remove or disturb these animals.)

Time your visit so you arrive at tide pool beaches 30 to 60 minutes before low tide. That will give you plenty of time to check out the tide pools before the ocean covers them again—until the next low tide.

Run down sand dunes

One of the most unique things to do on the Oregon Coast: visit the sand dunes!

The Florence area is home to Oregon’s best sand dunes, which also happen to be the largest stretch of sand dunes in North America! Check out South Jetty County Park or Honeyman State Park, both just south of Florence, OR. These two destinations offer tall, rolling hills of sand and incredible views.

Honeyman’s dunes run right into a lake, where you can also rent kayaks. (For details on Honeyman State Park, read about things to do near Florence, one of our favorite Oregon Coast towns.) In contrast, South Jetty’s dunes slope down to the beach, as you can see here:

No matter which sand dunes you explore, don’t miss this unique thing to do on the Oregon Coast.

Visit Sea Lion Caves

Did you know that the Oregon Coast is the world’s largest sea cave? This natural rock formation in the Pacific fills with the barks of huge sea lions all year long.

A stop at the Sea Lion Caves, about 15 minutes north of Florence on Highway 101, won’t take long but is worth the trip.

Be prepared: This Oregon Coast activity is both noisy and smelly. (Someone forgot to pass the sea lions a toothbrush.) This just makes the experience of visiting Sea Lion Caves even more memorable.

Go whale watching

If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of whales on the Oregon Coast any time of year. But Oregon’s whale watching season peaks twice: mid-December to mid-January and late February to May.

These stretches are when grey whales migrate past the Oregon Coast, making it much more likely for you to spot these gentle giants.

Many visitors book a whale watching trip with a tour company or charter (for example in Depoe Bay). I’ve seen plenty of whales on my own from the beach!

You might spot a whale spouting water from its blow hole in the distance. If you’re really lucky, you might see a whale up close. I’ve seen whales come a stone throw’s distance from the sand—experiences I’ll never, ever forget.

Watch waves at Devils Churn

Are you sensing a theme? Whoever named landmarks on the Oregon Coast had a penchant for devils and gods. I have a feeling it’s because these spots can be extremely dramatic!

Devils Churn, near Yachats, OR, is no different.

Just a short walk from the parking lot off Highway 101, see the waves crashing into a narrow opening worn down over millennia of tides. You can also access the Restless Waters Trailhead here.

Access to the park is $5 per day.

Amazing things to do on the Oregon Coast

Is your head swimming with so many unique things to do on the Oregon Coast? I hope this post from a local’s perspective helps you narrow down your must-do activities (or maybe I just added a bunch of items to your itinerary!).

Either way, I can’t wait to hear about your favorite Oregon Coast spots. Did I miss any? What would you recommend?

And don’t worry: I’ll continue to add to and update this Oregon Coast guide. There’s always more to discover in this breathtaking part of the US.

The post Local’s Oregon Coast Vacation Guide: Towns, beaches, hikes + more! appeared first on To & Fro Fam.

This stunning beach is a half-hour from Forks, WA and about 3 1/2 hours from Seattle. Ruby Beach is off Highway 101 pretty much in the middle of nowhere—and that’s part of its charm.

Whether the weather is moody or bright, this beach won’t disappoint. Its sea stacks, gnarled driftwood, swimming hole and dramatic views make Ruby Beach an unforgettable spot in Washington.

Exploring Ruby Beach, WA

Ruby Beach lies within the traditional Hoh and Quinault territories.

This Olympic National Park beach is best known for its rocky beach, dramatic sea stacks and tumbles of driftwood. You can climb into and onto rock formations throughout the beach.

(Edie, our mountain goat, wanted to climb to the tippy top of every rock she saw. Thankfully she listens when we tell her to come down. Mostly.)

When you first arrive at Ruby Beach, you’ll notice that Cedar Creek creates a kid-friendly swimming hole just past the trail access point. We saw kids full-on swimming here and floating on logs. This spot is not open to the Pacific Ocean, so kids don’t have to worry about waves.

Even if you forgot the swimming suits, the pool just begs to be waded through. Or try your hand at skipping rocks!

Speaking of rocks, look closely around rock formations at low tide for sea stars, sea anemones, crabs and other ocean life.

Out to sea, spot Abbey Island to the north. Sea stacks are what locals call the smaller rock outcroppings in the ocean. These rock formations offer habitat to the Olympic National Park’s wildlife. And they look positively eerie when emerging from the mist!

The short Ruby Beach hike

When you search online, you might come across articles on the Ruby Beach hike. In reality, the “hike” is a quarter-mile walk down to the beach.

The trail is paved but steep. (I carried 5-year-old Maxine the whole way up during one visit and was definitely out of breath at the top!) This hike is not an accessible trail, although there is an accessible view point at the very top.

The Ruby Beach trail is quite narrow, so you’ll come closer than 6 feet to other people when you pass. I found that the vast majority of people were respecting social distancing and mask wearing guidelines.

At the base of the short Ruby Beach hike, you’ll find two entries to the beach. The first access point requires you to scramble over quite a bit of driftwood. The second access point includes a little path carved around the wood, though you’ll still need to step over weather-bleached logs in a few places.

If you’re looking for a strenuous Olympic National Park hike, Ruby Beach isn’t for you. But if you want a short walk with a big reward, you’ll want to add this to your itinerary, especially if you need a place to stretch your legs on a road trip.

What to expect on this gem of a beach

Olympic National Park is the ninth most-visited national park in the US, drawing more than 3 million visitors in 2019. So when you head to Ruby Beach, don’t expect an empty stretch of coastline.

Even during COVID times, Ruby Beach becomes quite busy. The parking lot fills up and the short hike down to the beach is narrow. You’ll come into contact with other people so wear your mask.

That said, with so much space to spread out, you won’t feel crowded once you get down to the beach.

Mornings are less busy at Ruby Beach, so aim to arrive early to have a better chance of snagging a parking spot.

Vault toilets are available in the parking lot off Highway 101, and when we visited, they were well maintained. You’ll also find dog waste bags in a dispenser for your four-legged travel buddy. (Even if you don’t have a dog, take a bag and fill it with any garbage you find on the beach. Throw it in the trash on your way out.)

As this is a national park, know of a few additional rules:

• Drones are not allowed on Ruby Beach (or anywhere else in any national park).
• Do not take any souvenirs (rocks, driftwood, etc.) from the beach.
• You are also on traditional Native Nations land. Treat it respectfully.

Directions to Ruby Beach, Washington

Whether you’re taking an Olympic National Park road trip, camping nearby or making a day trip of your visit, directions to Ruby Beach, WA are straightforward.

If you’re coming from Seattle, Tacoma or Olympia, drive to Aberdeen and then head north on Highway 101. You’ll pass a few small towns but this is wilderness. Tall trees tower over the two-lane highway.

About 10 minutes north of Kalaloch Lodge, you’ll see a sign for Ruby Beach. The parking lot is on the west (ocean-side) of the highway, so you’ll need to cross oncoming traffic. If you reach the Hoh River, you’ve gone too far.

If you’re coming from the northern Olympic Peninsula, drive south on Highway 101. A half-hour south of Forks, you’ll find the Ruby Beach parking lot on your right. You’ll reach it about 10 minutes after crossing the Hoh River.

By the way, if you’re on an Olympic National Park road trip, you need my book Road Trip Games & Activities for Kids! The 33 fun, customizable games and free printables will keep you entertained along every mile! Simply click the image below and snag yourself a copy today.

Gorgeous Olympic National Park beaches

It’s impossible to pick the best beaches in Olympic National Park. If you were to make a list, though, Ruby Beach would be on it.

This extremely photogenic stop off Highway 101 won’t disappoint folks looking to take photos on the Olympic Peninsula.

If you’re looking for other Olympic National Park beaches, drive north past Forks, WA to Rialto Beach. Read everything you need to know about this spot (including a low tide-only hike!) in my full post on exploring Rialto Beach, WA.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it for later!

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I’m so glad I followed that random hunch. Because after a short, easy hike, I was rewarded.

Big time.

Teal blue water, views of the Cascade Mountains, water warm enough that even I wanted to swim: Lucky Lake is a gem. And it’s just 45 minutes from Bend or a half-hour from Sunriver in the Deschutes National Forest and Three Sisters Wilderness.

With so many hikes and lakes near Bend, Oregon and Sunriver, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. (It’s a good problem to have: Which gorgeous mountain lake should you explore today??)

But if you’re looking for a family-friendly, dog-friendly, easy hike to a breathtaking spot, your choice is as clear as that alpine lake water.

Cash in your good fortune that you’re in Oregon and hike Lucky Lake.

Hiking Lucky Lake near Bend, OR

The 2.5-mile out and back hike to Lucky Lake is the best kind of easy: the incline is gradual, the trail is well maintained, and the payoff at trail’s end will make even hot kids forget their complaining.

(Not that I have any experience with that.)

The hike to Lucky Lake starts at a trailhead also used for the Senoj Lake Trail. You can park at the main trailhead by following the short paved road off the Cascade Lakes Highway and bearing left.

If that lot is full, or you want to shave a half-mile off your hike, take your first right to the alternate parking lot. (This is also the lot with the vault toilet. There are no other toilet facilities at the trailhead or along the hike.)

The hike gains a mere 400 feet or so, climbing gradually. Young kids and people with limited mobility should have little trouble.

The trail is well maintained: Any fallen logs have been cut so you won’t have to scramble over any obstacles.

The walk up is dusty, as are most Cascade Lakes hikes near Bend. Expect to leave a cloud of dust in your wake. It’s just one more reason to leave plenty of space between you and other groups!

While the weather at Lucky Lake can get hot, trees keep much of the trail shaded. Thank you trees!

Stop-worthy Cascade Lakes Scenic Byway hike

As you reach the trail’s crest, you’ll see blue through the gaps in the trees ahead. The air immediately feels fresh and cool. You’ve made it to gorgeous Lucky Lake!

An undeveloped swimming area sits directly in front of where the trail Ts here. You can head straight to the water or do as I did and continue walking along the lake’s perimeter. You can go either left or right to find a private swimming spot.

For the best views of Broken Top, South Sister and Middle Sister, take a left at the T. I love the way the peaks play peek-a-boo as you walk—visible one moment, then hidden behind the Three Sisters Wilderness tree line the next.

Scramble down from the path at any point to dip into the water. The pine forest here is easy to walk through. (If you have mobility limitations, your best bet for maintained trails to the water is the area directly in front of the top of the trail, where it Ts.)

Fallen logs line the shore of most of Lucky Lake. Take a seat and dangle your legs in, or lounge on them to dry off after your swim.

I was surprised at how (relatively) warm Lucky Lake is. I’m used to the feet-numbing chill of most Cascade lakes. And I’m usually a weenie about cold water—I have a really hard time warming up once I get cold—but even I enjoyed a swim here!

The lake bottom is a bit muddy, but stand still a moment and the water becomes clear again. It’s also quite shallow so an adult can touch the bottom for yards into the lake.

Backpacking and camping at Lucky Lake, OR

I haven’t stayed overnight at Lucky Lake yet, but it’s a great spot for backpacking and dispersed camping.

(Dispersed camping involves setting up and staying overnight where there is not a developed campground. Dispersed camping is allowed in Oregon State Forests, including the Deschutes National Forest, year-round and doesn’t require a fee.)

The short trail makes Lucky Lake a terrific spot for families who want to test out backpacking. I passed several families who were backpacking in for an overnight stay. Kids as young as 7 or 8 were packing in their supplies!

All camping at Lucky Lake is dispersed. That means there are no amenities such as running water or toilets.

Several camping spots have been cleared out, though, making it easier to set up. It’s better to camp at one of these places instead of clearing a new area. That leaves the surrounding landscape intact.

I saw some fire pits around Lucky Lake camp sites, but you’re not supposed to make a fire within 100 feet of the water. Check for burn bans before you spark a fire, even from far away. When I recently visited in August, all fires were banned. (Propane stoves were still ok.)

As with all dispersed camping, Lucky Lake campers must adhere to leave no trace principles. Everything you pack in must be packed out. And since there are no toilets, take care of your biology business properly: Bury poo 6-8 inches in the ground at least 200 feet away from water sources.

(Fun fact, at least as far as poo facts can be fun: These are called cat holes!)

Lucky Lake trail details

To get to Lucky Lake, drive south from Bend on the Cascade Lakes Byway. Just after you pass the turnoff for Lava Lake, you’ll see a sign for the Lucky Lake Trailhead. You’ll turn right off the highway.

The Lucky Lake Trailhead will pop up in google maps, but you’ll want to download the map before you leave home in case you lose service in the Cascades.

From Sunriver, drive west on Conklin Road / National Forest Road 40. It’ll take you about a half-hour.

Dogs are allowed on this trail—just make sure to pick up after them and pack out their waste.

I’m pretty sure that by this point, you don’t need a whole lot more convincing that Lucky Lake should be on your list of things to do in Central Oregon. I know we’ll be back as soon as we can.

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Oregon trails are known for their beauty, but not many have a dramatic suspension bridge hanging above a river! Add in a waterfall and you have an unforgettable hike.

The next time you’re near the Oregon Coast and Lincoln City, make a short detour to the Drift Creek Falls trail. You won’t be disappointed.

Drift Creek Falls trail

Not too long ago, a group of girlfriends and I hiked Drift Creek Falls together. We may or may not have drunk too much champagne the night before, so fresh air and some exercise was just what we needed.

What else we needed, apparently: A good laugh at how yours truly nearly peed her leggings while walking across a suspension bridge swaying 100 feet over a narrow canyon below.

The Drift Creek Falls trail runs just under 3 miles round-trip. It’s an out-and-back trail with less than 500 feet elevation gain. So aside from a few gradual ups and downs, it’s overall a flat and easy hike.

Most of the dirt trail is well graded. That said, you’ll want to keep an eye out for roots sticking up through the ground. Don’t twist an ankle!

The Drift Creek Falls trail crosses a burbling creek. If it looks like too small a stream to result in a dramatic waterfall, that’s because it is! Several creeks and underwater streams combine to cascade over the 75-foot-high waterfall.

Drift Creek Falls suspension bridge

Only a few dozen suspension bridges exist in Oregon, and Drift Creek Falls is one of the most easily accessible. That doesn’t mean it’s less than spectacular!

The Drift Creek Falls suspension bridge runs 240 feet above a river 100 feet below. It looks sturdy, and it is: The bridge can hold 165,000 pounds—that’d be about 12 T Rexes. (Though OMG if you’re on the bridge with 12 ferocious dinosaurs best of luck to you.)

The suspension bridge is sturdy—and it sways. The movement as you walk across the bridge is actually part of its structural design, allowing it to stay standing even in the wind or if a group of hikers with a death wish stomp across behind you.

As you cross the bridge walking in the direction away from the trailhead, you’ll see the waterfall to your right.

Once you’re on the other side, hike down toward the creek. You’ll catch a better view of the falls down there.

Oregon Coastal Range forest

The Oregon Coast Range is covered in dense forest. These pristine areas are full of ferns, Doug firs, cedar, wildflowers and so much more.

Keep an eye out for seedlings growing on fallen logs. The forest district leaves old, fallen timber in the forest (only cutting off sections that block the trail). That’s because mosses, ferns, fungi and even new trees use these “nurse logs” for habitat.

They grow on the fallen logs, since they end up growing a bit higher up than the plants on the forest floor. That means more sunlight and less competition.

You also might notice that the forests along the Oregon Coast don’t fluctuate much in temperature. That’s partly because the trees grow close together, creating an insulating bubble for the ground below. The branches almost weave together—and may even make a bit of an umbrella if it rains!

As you walk along the Drift Creek Falls trail, you’ll pass old growth trees as well as newer growth. Old and new combine for a healthy ecosystem, making habitat for birds, salamanders, deer and elk. Even bear and cougar call these forests home, though they steer clear of well trafficked trails like Drift Creek Falls in Oregon.

Details to hike Drift Creek Falls, Oregon

Drift Creek Falls is about 40 minutes inland from Lincoln City, OR. You can google directions to the Drift Creek Falls trailhead, which is trail 1378. I recommend downloading the map in case you lose service in the hills. 

Much of the road to the Drift Creek Falls trailhead is windy and narrow. If you get car sick, make sure to take car sickness prevention medication before your drive. It doesn’t really work if you take it once you’re already queasy.

This popular trail gets quite busy, especially on weekends and during the summer. To avoid crowds, go as close to sunup as you can, or hike on a weekday.

There is a toilet at the Drift Creek Falls trailhead, but I’d only use it if the need were dire. Take care of biology business before you arrive.

Some parts of the trail are narrow. Step aside the best you can when you pass others on the trail. Maintain social distance so everyone can safely enjoy the outdoors, and keep a mask on-hand for when you can’t stay more than 6 feet away from others.

Safety note: The trail itself is easy to moderate. It’s not strenuous, and it doesn’t climb a lot of altitude. That said, I’m still not comfortable taking my young kids on this hike near Lincoln City.

That might be because of my extreme and almost-paralyzing fear of heights. But I just don’t trust my young kiddos, who are 5 and 7, to stay safe near the suspension bridge.

This hike is excellent for older kids and parents who wear their littles in a hiking backpack or baby carrier. But personally, I don’t recommend bringing kids younger than about 9 or 10.

If you’re able, though, don’t miss this stunning Oregon Coast hike. It’s a short 40-minute drive from nearby Lincoln City and 100% worth a stop.

If you’re in the area, don’t miss my thorough post on the best things to do in Lincoln City, OR!

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This stone and sand beach, with its eerie Tree Graveyard and massive collection of driftwood, is unlike anyplace else. And if you time your visit right, you can hike to Hole in the Wall. This unique rock formation at the end of the beach is only accessible at low tide, when you’ll also find tide pools and a path to a remote stretch of sand.

Some of my favorite features of Rialto Beach, WA:

• Tree Graveyard: line of standing bleached trees along the shore
• Driftwood: piles of twisted wood washed ashore
• Stone beach: a mix of agates (some as big as a fist) and volcanic rock (many perfect for skipping)
• Hole in the Wall: a majestic rock formation less crowded than the main Rialto Beach
• Sea stacks: offshore islands, called sea stacks, dot the horizon
• Wildlife: home to eagles, shorebirds, sea otters, sea lions and whales

Read on for all the details you need on visiting Rialto Beach, Washington. My post outlines the must-know info for the hike to Hole in the Wall, where to park at Rialto Beach, COVID-19 restrictions and Rialto Beach camping.

Background on Rialto Beach, WA

Rialto Beach is just north of La Push, WA, a town on Quileute Native land. (You can see La Push from Rialto Beach by looking south across the Quillayute River.)

As of this writing, all Native land in this area, including La Push, is closed to restrict the spread of coronavirus. That means no visitors at all. As a result, First Beach and Second Beach are inaccessible. Once we’ve moved past the worst of this virus, I’m excited to visit for La Push Days, a July event that celebrates Quileute culture.

Rialto Beach is about 20 minutes west of Forks, Washington. Forks has the most lodging, restaurants, cafes and grocery stores in this area if you need to stock up on anything.

And if any of these places or names sound familiar, it might be because you recognize them from the Twilight series. These books are set in Forks, WA and the surrounding area. Jacob Black and the other characters who can turn into werewolves are members of the Quileute Nation.

Exploring Rialto Beach, Washington

Rialto Beach is a gorgeous, easily accessible beach on the Olympic Peninsula. Unlike many other beaches in the area, you don’t have to hike at all to reach the shoreline. What’s more, an accessible sidewalk leads to a viewpoint that overlooks the beach.

Millions of round rocks cover the shore here. They’re primarily volcanic stone, their edges worn into smooth ovals after years and years. Keep an eye out for agates, too. We found some that were the size of my fist. (A reminder to leave everything you find, as this is part of a national park and marine sanctuary.)

From the Rialto Beach access point, you can walk a short ways south. Before long, though, you’ll reach Quileute land, which is currently closed to visitors.

When you turn north, though, you have more than 1.5 miles of beach to explore. The farther you walk, the fewer people you encounter.

Rialto Beach is part of the Olympic Peninsula so you need to be prepared for any kind of weather. One day we visited and the beach was blanketed in a thick fog. Another day I returned and saw nothing but sun; I ended up in my tank top. Even if it’s sunny and hot where you’re staying, the micro-climates along the Olympic Peninsula could cause a weird pocket of fog, rain or clouds.

As Rialto Beach is primarily rock, we left our sand toys in the car. I also recommend wearing sturdy shoes, not flimsy flip flops, as you’ll be walking over lots of rocks.

Finally, check out the sea stacks that rise out of the Pacific Ocean. These rock islands, or outcroppings, used to be part of the stone headlands where land met the sea. Over time, the ocean eroded the softer rock around what are now sea stacks, leaving them standing alone in the water.

Tree Graveyard and driftwood at Rialto Beach

One of the most striking features of Rialto Beach: the line of bleached tree skeletons lining the shore, nicknamed the Tree Graveyard. These eerie trees stand like sentinels watching the ocean. I like to imagine them staying on the lookout for pirates. (Maxine is all about playing pirates at the beach!)

These wind-battered sitka spruce trunks create a border between the beach and the green forest inland. They look a bit like rib bones sticking up from the shore.

Enormous piles of driftwood also draw visitors and professional photographers to Rialto Beach. We loved checking out the gnarled roots and splintered trunks that line the beach. Most of these are safe to climb or sit on, but be careful: You never know when one could shift.

Previous beach-goers built forts of driftwood, many of which are still standing. Maxine and Edie explored every one, creating imaginary games inside.

Tides and storms constantly reshape this beach, so it’s different every time you visit. I can’t wait to be surprised by the changes next time we go!

Hike to Hole in the Wall, WA

First and foremost: Hole in the Wall is accessible only at low tide. You’ll need to time your hike so you don’t get stranded with no way back until the next low tide.

Aim to arrive at Hole in the Wall about a half-hour before low tide. (Check tide charts here.) That will give you enough time to explore the rock formation and tide pools before heading back as the tide turns.

I needed less than 2 hours round-trip to do the Hole in the Wall hike. That said, I was walking very quickly (since low tide was shortly before sunset) and I didn’t have kids with me. You may need more time than I did.

About 1.5 miles north of the access point to Rialto Beach, you’ll find a dramatic rock formation called Hole in the Wall. Here, time and the constant push of the tides have carved an opening in the basalt cliff.

A quick moment to geek out: Geologists believe that this part of the Olympic Peninsula formed from the cooled eruption of undersea volcanoes. When volcanoes spewed lava far offshore, that lava hardened into basalt on the ocean floor. Then, as two tectonic plates slowly collided, this basalt buckled up—forming the cliffs we admire today.

So when you explore Hole in the Wall, you can impress everyone by explaining how they’re actually walking on cooled lava from more than 34 million years ago.

To get to Hole in the Wall, you’ll start at the main Rialto Beach access point. Take a right when you reach the beach. Walk north along the shore for about 1.5 miles, when you’ll arrive at Hole in the Wall.

Along the way, you’ll cross Ellen Creek at about the 0.8 mile mark. Dogs are not allowed past this point. (Our pup Finn stayed behind on this hike.)

As you hike, watch the waves—I spotted a few sea lions. I also counted at least four bald eagles soaring overhead.

The hike to Hole in the Wall is more of a beach stroll than a proper hike: There’s no elevation gain, and your “trail” is just the shoreline. That doesn’t diminish this area’s stunning beauty.

Accessibility: Hikers will have to cross Ellen Creek. When I hiked to Hole in the Wall, I was able to walk up and around the creek so didn’t get my feet wet, but conditions are always changing. You may need to scramble here.

Additionally, you can see Hole in the Wall a bit from the south. But to really experience it, you’ll need to climb over uneven rocks and slippery spots. This is not a good hike for people with mobility limitations.

Tide pools at Hole in the Wall

Once you arrive at Hole in the Wall at Rialto Beach, you’ll want to explore. The outgoing tide leaves behind pools of water that collect in dips in the rocks. Sea anemones, sea stars, crabs and little fish all make their homes in these tide pools.

As you walk, be very careful. First of all, the seaweed that grows on the rocks is quite slick. Secondly, you’re walking over someone’s home. Watch where you step so you don’t crush a sea creature.

Remember that the tide pools are protected as part of the Olympic Coast National Marine Sanctuary. Look but don’t disturb the animals or habitats in the tide pools.

The tide pools extend for yards and yards toward the sea. As you make your way around the tide pools, you’ll come to the north side of Hole in the Wall. Lots of people stop here to take a photo of themselves in the hole.

Remember, keep an eye on the time and the tides. You’ll need to head back when the tide turns. This area becomes cut off from the main Rialto Beach as the tide comes in.

Rialto Beach camping

We haven’t camped at Rialto Beach—yet—but are excited to try!

Many folks camp north of Ellen Creek and even on the stretch of sand past Hole in the Wall, which is accessible only at low tide.

Campers must buy an overnight permit for Rialto Beach camping. Permits can be found at the Wilderness Information Center in Port Angeles. *Coronavirus update: The WIC is closed for social distancing. As of now, you must reserve your wilderness camping permit online. Here are instructions to get your permit online.

Although camping here is rugged—there are no toilet facilities and few semi-established sites—it’s quite busy. You will be sharing the area with plenty of other campers. Rialto Beach’s popularity as a camping spot makes it even more important to stick to leave no trace principles: Pack out all garbage and bury waste far from water sources (i.e. Ellen Creek).

As this camping area is remote, you’ll need to pack in all food and supplies. You can purify the fresh water at Ellen Creek for drinking water. All food must be stored in a bear canister. This is a national park wilderness after all! The hardware store in Forks also sells a variety of bear canisters.

Dogs are not allowed on overnight stays. Plenty of trees make excellent spots to hang hammocks, though—bring one that’s compact and lightweight like this one, which stuffs into a little bag for easy transportation!

Must-know details to visit Rialto Beach

Rialto Beach is within the Olympic National Park. That means you’re not able to collect rocks, driftwood or any other souvenirs from the beach.

Rialto Beach is even more popular now that access to First Beach and Second Beach is restricted. The parking lot is small and fills up quickly.

The shoulders along Mora Road have quite a lot of parking spots, though. Whenever I’ve visited Rialto Beach, I’ve had no trouble finding a parking spot on the side of the road, even during the summer. Note: All your wheels must be completely off the pavement or else you could get towed!

Safety reminder: If you park on the shoulder, you’ll need to walk on the road to reach the beach. (There is no sidewalk or trail.) You won’t be alone, and drivers move slowly on this stretch of road. That said, be extra-aware of your surroundings and move to the shoulder whenever cars pass. Hold onto children and keep dogs on a very short leash.

Rialto Beach maintains vault toilet facilities but bring your own TP and hand sanitizer in case it’s not well stocked.

Remember to wear your mask. You’ll pass plenty of people walking to and from the entrance to Rialto Beach. Once you get to the beach, you’ll be able to maintain social distance.

An unforgettable Olympic National Park beach

My family has officially fallen in love with the Olympic Peninsula and the Olympic National Park. From the forests and the hikes to the beaches and rock formations, there’s simply so much to experience in this gorgeous corner of the country.

Our five days camping and exploring in this area felt cruelly short. But I’m a big believer in leaving something to look forward to the next time we visit. We have plenty of plans to return as soon as we’re able!

Something tells me you’re hankering for a trip to the Olympic Peninsula, too. When you go, stop at Rialto Beach and let me know what you think.

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Devils Punchbowl naturally formed in the rock beside the Pacific Ocean. The cavern’s ceiling collapsed ages ago, leaving this breathtaking site open to the sky. You feel as if you’re walking into an enormous bowl when you explore inside.

Most visitors see this formation only from the top. The Devils Punchbowl Natural Area includes an easy-to-access viewpoint where you can watch waves crashing into the open-air cavern. Fewer people, though, time their visit to hike into Devils Punchbowl. In fact, not many people realize it’s even possible!

Consider yourself in the know. Below, I share how to hike into Devils Punchbowl, how to get there and what you’ll find.

How to get to Devils Punchbowl Natural Area + hike

Devils Punchbowl Natural Area is located on a piece of land that juts into the Pacific Ocean. The natural area lies between Depoe Bay and Newport. (It’s also a ten-minute drive from the famous Yaquina Head Lighthouse.) What’s more, Devils Punchbowl is a terrific stop if you’re on an Oregon Coast road trip along Highway 101.

To get there, turn off Highway 101 onto Otter Crest Loop. The road is well marked—look for a sign that announces Devils Punchbowl and the Inn at Otter Crest.

Follow the road to the end of 1st Street, where there’s plenty of parking and a public restroom. Most people just head to the viewpoint overlooking Devils Punchbowl. But here’s how to get to the hike.

From the parking area, walk north on C Avenue. Halfway between 3rd St. and the dead end. you’ll see a path on your left (marked by a star on the map above). Simply follow the path to the beach.

You’ll have to climb a bit to get to the beach from the path, as the tides have thwarted attempts to maintain the end of the trail. That means this beach access point is difficult for people with mobility limitations, and it’s not stroller-friendly.

Walking Otter Crest Beach

Otter Crest Beach stretches between the cliffs at Otter Crest to the north and Devils Punchbowl to the south.

This isn’t a long stretch of beach but it is diverse. At low tide. you can walk along the flat sand alongside tall cliffs. And low tide reveals shelves of rock you can (carefully) explore.

Tide pools here shelter critters most people see only in aquariums (like the nearby Oregon Coast Aquarium in Newport). Look for sea anemones, sea stars, barnacles, limpets, little fish and crabs.

Level 10 travel tip: The best way to see wildlife in a tide pool is to wait patiently. Stay still and you’ll see a bump you thought was just sand reveal itself as a fish, or watch as a crab wanders around looking for a snack.

The rocks here are covered in seaweed, which makes footing slippery in places. Be extremely careful and help little ones maneuver the rocks.

Hike to Devils Punchbowl

From the beach access trail, turn left to walk south along Otter Crest Beach. I call this a hike, but it’s more of a quarter-mile stroll. You’ll need to clamber over rocks and carefully step your way toward the entrance to the Devils Punchbowl cave.

As you walk, watch for smaller caves and hidey holes in the cliff. Kids love exploring these naturally occurring caves! They also make terrific photo spots.

A two-story arch marks the entrance to the cave of Devils Punchbowl. (Look in the horizontal cracks at about knee level to spy crabs and sea stars here!)

Exploring inside Devils Punchbowl, Oregon

Low tide reveals hundreds of rocks and boulders on the floor of Devils Punchbowl. A second archway leads to the ocean, where waves crash even during calm seas. The most dramatic feature of Devils Punchbowl, though, is the overhead opening.

Carefully climb over rocks to explore this enormous, hollow rock formation. The opening at the top is narrower than the base of the bowl, so it feels as if you’re gazing up out of a crater.

Geologists suspect that this was once a cave open only to the ocean, not from above. The roof of the cave likely collapsed years and years ago, leaving the bowl formation behind. Since then, waves continue to shape the cave little by little.

Devils Punchbowl is made of both basalt and sandstone. Basalt, a hard, volcanic rock, erodes much more slowly than sandstone. So over the years, the tide and the elements wore down the sandstone more quickly than the basalt. That’s why grotto-like undercuts ring the base of Devils Punchbowl.

The force of waves also moves rocks and debris around in the cave so it’s different every time you visit. On our most recent trip, we found a jaw bone! At first we thought it might be from a sea lion, but texting with a marine biologist friend revealed we were way off. Turns out it was the jaw bone of a deer.

While you’re inside Devils Punchbowl, look through the second, smaller arch that leads to the ocean. You’ll see waves crash on the rocks surrounding the cave. Water rushes a little way into the cave, too, which gives you an inkling of what happens as the tide rises.

When I recently visited, we spent about a half-hour inside the cavern. That’s plenty of time to explore the area.

Must-know details of Devils Punchbowl State Natural Area

Remember that hiking into Devils Punchbowl is only safe at low tide. Always keep an eye on the tide, time and waves. If the water rose when you weren’t paying attention, you’d be stuck inside the punchbowl and drown.

**Link to low tide times for Devils Punchbowl**

If you hike inside Devils Punchbowl, wear sturdy shoes. Flip flops will slide off your feed and you’re likely to twist an ankle.

This area is public and free; there is no access fee.

Cliffside Coffee & Sweets and the Flying Dutchman Winery are right next to several of the parking areas. As of the time of publication, these spots are open for to-go orders only. Picnic tables overlooking the Pacific make terrific lunch spots!

So tell me: After reading this, are you as excited to check out this unique thing to do on the Oregon Coast as I am? Keep your eye on the tide chart and plan your visit now!

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