The Oregon Coast Trail crosses Neahkahnie Mountain from Short Sand Beach and descends to Manzanita. This hike, mostly within the boundaries of Oswald West State Park, takes you from the majestic old growth around Necarney Creek to the clifftop views of the Devils Cauldron; then you cross meadows frequented by elk to hike up Neahkahnie Mountain to a spectacular viewpoint. You'll descend to the South Neahkahnie Mountain Trailhead. From there, there's a mile and a half of road walking, including a mile and a quarter along the shoulder of busy Highway 101 (There is a path for pedestrians), but the scenic views make the loop worthwhile.

Activity Notes

This will be an out-and-back hike on the coast. We'll start with the short trails to the Devil's Cauldron area, then head down to the Elk Flats Rock.  We will return to the trailhead and head to the other side of the highway to climb Neahkahnie Mountain From the North.

If you look this hike up, you will likely encounter a loop option that involves hiking along Highway 101. We will be doing this as an out-and-back, which will require crossing Highway 101 but we will NOT be hiking along the highway itself.  You can find information about the Neahkahnie Climb here: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Neahkahnie_Mountain_from_North_Hike

Carpool from Sunset Transit Center at 7:15AM or you can meet us at Neahkahnie Mountain NORTH TH at 9:00AM. Suggested gas contribution is $17/passenger. No passes required.

Expect rain, mud, fog, and winter weather.  I plan to hike this rain or shine, but I will cancel for serious adverse weather conditions.  I will also cancel if the road conditions between Portland and the coast are dangerous.

Total stats for both parts are 7 miles, 1900' gain, 1600' high point

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 156 miles
Distance - Round Trip 8 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
FIND AN UPCOMING ACTIVITY ON THE Calendar