Depoe Bay Activities
The rugged Oregon Coast beckons many to its shores and while many of our guests love to relax in their suite or Jacuzzi tub with oceanfront views, we understand the need to get out and explore it up close. Hiking the Oregon Coast is a great way to experience the beauty of the natural landscape that surrounds the area. Discover these hiking trails and scenic viewpoints, in and around Depoe Bay.
Scenic Viewpoints
Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint
Where the black, sharp lava rocks clearly define the intersection of sea and land, Rocky Creek State Scenic Viewpoint offers a dramatic viewpoint that brings you close to the action. Hike amongst the forest of shore pines and gain front row seats to some of the best whale watching spots along the Oregon Coast.
Boiler Bay State Scenic Viewpoint
This park captures the beauty of the Oregon Coast perfectly with its rocky terrain and ocean views. Many visit the park for the ample photography options but have noted it’s an easy walk to the cliffs and around the surrounding area. This park is also be very popular during peak whale watching season. Picnic and restroom facilities are available on-site.
Devil’s Punchbowl State Natural Area
Five miles south of Depoe Bay is the Devil’s Punchbowl, a natural phenomenon you won’t want to miss. There are scenic spots for photos and hiking trails in the area. The trail is easy and 1.1 miles roundtrip. There’s a longer hike beside the campground at Beverly Beach.
Depoe Bay Scenic View Area
Located on the west side of Coast Avenue, this trail offers a spectacular ocean view at the end. While not an actual trail, this hidden spot is one of the more scenic spots along the Oregon Coast. Located at the end of town near Vista Avenue and Sunset Avenue, a set of stairs will lead you to the scenic viewpoint.
Hiking Trails
Cape Perpetua Scenic Area
An abundance of scenic trails awaits in the U.S. Forest Service’s Cape Perpetua Scenic Area in Yachats. There are 26 miles of hiking trails that vary from old growth forest to beach vista trails. Find your favorite trail at Cape Perpetua online.
City Park
At the south end of town, off Shell Avenue, is City Park. If you head through the park, you’ll encounter the Nature Trail trailhead. The main trail is classified as easy, though there is a branch of the trail that’s steep for avid walkers or hikers.
Cascade Head Trail
Just half an hour north of Depoe Bay visitors will find the challenging hike at the Cascade Head Trail. Be rewarded for your hard work with stunning views and panoramic scenes of the Oregon Coast. Total distance is 6.8 miles, out and back and is rated as difficult.
Fogarty Creek State Recreation Area
At one mile north of Depoe Bay, you’ll see where the creek meets the ocean and find wind-sheltered picnic areas. Two notable trails to explore are Fishing Rock Trail and Fogarty Creek Loop. There’s also beach access from this park as well as wooden footbridges leading into the forest.
Fishing Rock Trail
For a quick and easy hike near Depoe Bay, check out the 0.5-mile, out-and-back, Fishing Rock Trail. The short walk leads hikers through shaded trees out to a scenic viewpoint, overlooking the ocean. This hidden gem is found off Highway 101, turning onto Fishing Rock St., south of Lincoln City. It’s the perfect roadside stop along your Oregon Coast road trip!
For more information regarding what to do and see in Depoe Bay be sure to visit our blog. Feel free to learn more about coastal storm watching!
After your long day of outdoor exploration, head back to your room at Channel House and continue to enjoy the beauty of the Oregon Coast with views from your private balcony.
