Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Coastal Mountain National Scenic Area stretches along Oregon’s northern coast, encompassing a dramatic mix of jagged cliffs, dense old-growth forests, pristine beaches, and winding river gorges. This area is part of the greater Northern Oregon Coast Range and includes some of the most ecologically rich temperate rainforests in the country. The scenic area features diverse habitats that support abundant wildlife including Roosevelt elk, black bears, northern spotted owls, and salmon-bearing rivers. Visitors can explore ancient Sitka spruce, Douglas fir, and western hemlock groves under a dense canopy draped with mosses and ferns. Historically, the region holds significance for Native American tribes, such as the Tillamook and Siletz peoples, who depended on the abundant coastal resources for generations. Modern recreationists enjoy hiking, mountain biking, birdwatching, fishing, and coastal kayaking. Notable landmarks within the area include Cape Meares Lighthouse, Whispering Cedars Trail, and the scenic overlooks at Oswald West State Park. The Coastal Mountain National Scenic Area is prized for its combination of rugged beauty and accessible outdoor adventures, appealing to campers, photographers, and river enthusiasts. Its trail systems link isolated coves and beaches to inland wilderness, making it an ideal spot to experience the raw power of the Pacific Ocean alongside tranquil forest solitude. Visitors come year-round but find spring and fall especially rewarding due to mild weather and vibrant seasonal colors.
