What to do on the People’s Coast

• Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

  Tillamook, Oregon 97141

  800-551-6949

  A must-see when driving the Three Capes Scenic route, Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint is situated on a headland 200 feet above the ocean. Cape Lookout and Cape Kiwanda are the other two capes on this route. Cape Meares provides an excellent view of the largest colony of nesting common murres (the site is one of the most populous colonies of nesting sea birds on the continent). Bald eagles and a peregrine falcon have also been known to nest near here.<P>

  http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_181.php

• Heceta Head Lighthouse

  Hwy 101 S

  Florence, Oregon 97439

  Named after Don Bruno de Heceta, a Spanish explorer, Heceta Head lighthouse is located north of Florence. This 56-foot tower was first lit in 1894. This lighthouse is 205 feet above the ocean and the light sits at the top of the 56' tower illuminated in 1894. A half-mile hike will lead visitors to this lighthouse, in addition to seabird nesting sites and nearby Bed and Breakfasts located in the assistant keeper's home. The short 1/2 mile hike to the top of the lighthouse from the parking lot is well worth the effort. The spectacular view makes it a great place to share a kiss or for a picnic. Open daily, May-September and Friday-Monday during March, April and October for tours.

  http://www.hecetalighthouse.com/

• Munson Creek State Natural Area

  6 mi. S of Tillamook on Hwy 101. Turn east on Munson Cr,. Rd for 2 mi.

  Tillamook , Oregon 97141

  800-551-6949

  The park is home to ancient western red cedar and Sitka spruce. A relic of an ancient rain forest, the world's second-tallest spruce -- at 260' tall and 8' in diameter -- lives here. Also an important salmon spawning ground, Munson Creek Falls tumbles 319', making it the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range. A 1/4 mile trail system winds through the hills to the waterfall. Vital stats: There is no fee to use this park. There's no water or restroom at the park. Munson Creek offers opportunities for hiking.

  http://www.oregonstateparks.org/park_245.php

• Umpqua River Lighthouse

  Reedsport, Oregon 97467

  541-271-4631

  This lighthouse has a 65-foot tower, which started in 1890. It is located near Reedsport and Umpqua Lighthouse State Park. First illuminated in 1894, Umpqua River lighthouse gives off very distinct red and white flashes. Visitors can check out the inside of the lighthouse, nearby park, or Lake Marie.

  http://www.umpqualighthouse.org/

• Yaquina Bay Lighthouse

  Newport, Oregon 97365

  Yaquina Bay lighthouse was built in 1871 and is the second oldest standing lighthouse structure on the Oregon coast. In original service only from 1871 to 1874 before the commissioning of the nearby brighter Yaquina Head Light eliminated its necessity. It was re-lit and recognized as a privately maintained aid to navigation by the U.S. Coast Guard in 1996. The lens is 42 feet above ground level and 161 feet above sea level. Open as a museum daily, except for holidays.

  http://www.yaquinalights.org/

Brought to you by OCVA in association with Travel Oregon & Wildernet