Tillamook County: Coast, Forests and Nature

The Cape Trail in Cape Lookout State Park follows a five-mile loop through Sitka spruce and western hemlock forest to the tip of the cape. In the same park, the North Trail and South Trail add hiking sections through the forest above the ocean to the Oregon Coast Trail. This gives you a loop hike and two named sections of the coastal trail to choose from.

Coastal Trails and Viewpoints

At Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint, overlooks offer opportunities to watch migrating gray whales and other marine mammals. Two more trails lead to distinctive trees: a 0.1-mile trail reaches the Octopus Tree, and a 0.25-mile spur leads to Oregon’s largest Sitka spruce. From the main parking lot, a paved 0.2-mile trail leads to the lighthouse; along the way, you’ll pass viewpoints and interpretive signs. The short tree trails and the lighthouse trail differ in both length and destination.

Note the current restriction at Cape Lookout State Park: The day-use area, campground and hiker-biker camp have been closed since August 3, 2026, for park improvements. Check the latest status before your visit.

Wetlands and Wildlife Watching

Sitka Sedge State Natural Area encompasses tidal flats, salt marshes, forested wetlands, abundant marsh wildlife and beach views. There are 3.5 miles of loop trails in total. The half-mile Beltz Dike Trail passes through the Sand Lake Estuary and wooded dunes to the beach. The area lies within the traditional territory of the Nestucca band of the Tillamook people.

Wildlife watching is also possible at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge. According to the refuge, thousands of overwintering Cackling Geese are especially easy to see there from late October through early April. The Pacific View Trail offers a different kind of view: This 0.6-mile paved loop is accessible to visitors with mobility impairments and ends at a platform overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Nestucca Bay and the Little Nestucca River. The Two Rivers Nature Trail is longer, at 2.2 miles, and follows several loops through coastal prairie, small wildflower meadows and mixed alder forest.

Waterfalls and Forest History

Munson Creek Falls plunge 319 feet over several tiers and are the tallest waterfall in the Coast Range. The Tillamook Forest Center explores the history of Oregon’s forests, the impacts of wildfires, and the art and science of sustainable forest management through interactive exhibits and educational programs. The grounds also include a climbable, 40-foot replica of a fire lookout tower and a 250-foot pedestrian suspension bridge over the Wilson River.

Routes, Rail and Waterways

The Three Capes Scenic Loop starts in downtown Tillamook and follows a 70-mile route along the water. The Oregon Coast Scenic Railroad offers another perspective on the region: Departures from Garibaldi or Rockaway Beach each take 30 minutes one way aboard a historic steam or diesel locomotive. During the ride, the railroad shares stories about the region, information about wildlife and the importance of conservation. Schedules vary by season; check them before your trip.

In Oswald West State Park in Tillamook County, a white sand beach stretches along more than four miles of coastline beside dense temperate rainforest. A 13-mile section of the Oregon Coast Trail also runs through the park from Arch Cape toward Manzanita. Paddlers can access the Little Nestucca and Nestucca rivers via county boat launches. East of Sand Lake, the Buzzard Butte Trail Network includes nearly 30 miles of mountain biking trails and a skills park.

Museums, Cheese and Traditions

The Tillamook County Pioneer Museum has 19 exhibit areas about the history of Oregon’s North Coast. Its collection includes 55,000 objects and 20,000 photographs, spanning everything from prehistoric artifacts to the present day. At the Tillamook Creamery’s Viewing Gallery, you can get a behind-the-scenes look at the cheese factory; there is also a cheese sampling counter.

The Pig-N-Ford races are also part of the region’s event tradition: They have been part of the Tillamook County Fair for more than 100 years. The specific program varies from year to year.

Discover more destinations: Garibaldi, Tillamook, Rockaway Beach, Cloverdale, Manzanita, Neskowin, Cape Meares, Nehalem, Netarts

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