Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

A must-see when driving the Three Capes Scenic route, Cape Meares State  Scenic Viewpoint is situated on a headland over 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 are frequently seen in this area, and peregrine falcons have also been known to nest near here. The park features tours of an 1890s lighthouse, the Sallie Jacobson Interpretive Kiosk, and interpretive panels at key viewpoints.  Cape Meares has over three miles of hiking trails and a mile-long walking trail that winds through old-growth spruce trees, including the uniquely-shaped "Octopus Tree". A short quarter mile hike from a turn-off at the park entrance will bring you to the largest Sitka spruce tree in the state of Oregon. In winter and spring, this park is an excellent location for viewing whale migrations. During the summer, resident whales can be seen from Cape Meares along with seals and sea lions that are often seen and heard. Cape Meares LighthouseThe inside of the lighthouse is open April 1st - Oct. 31st, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. daily. Admission is free. The base of the lighthouse tower, including a small gift shop, is fully open during these hours. The lighthouse tower has tours limited to five visitors every half hour. This limitation is due to vandalism in early 2010 which damaged the historic Fresnel lens.