Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
Community spots & sessions in OR · on LutherHeggs
Old-growth forest surrounded by a tumultuous ocean set the primeval scene at Cape Meares. Its cliffs support five species of nesting seabirds and a pair of Peregrine Falcons, a species recovered from the brink of extinction. Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, established in 1938, boasts views of nearby rocky islands, vertical coastal cliffs, and rolling headlands topped with old-growth forest dominated by Sitka Spruce and Western Hemlock. The cliffs support nesting seabirds including Common Murres, Pigeon Guillemots, Double-crested and Pelagic Cormorants, and Black Oystercatchers. Bald Eagles and Peregrine Falcons, formerly endangered species, nest nearby and appear regularly, causing ruckus among the seabirds. Cape Meares also offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean that encompass both Three Arch Rocks and Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuges, making it the only location in the United States where three refuges can be seen from one location. Hikers will enjoy several trails that wind through the headland's old-growth forest. The refuge also harbors the largest Sitka Spruce in Oregon . At 144 feet tall with a circumference of 48 feet and a crown spread of 93 feet, the "champion tree" is estimated to be between 700-800 years old. From multiple pristine viewpoints, migrating Gray Whales can be seen offshore, along with Harbor Seals and sea lions. The Cape Meares Lighthouse, managed by Oregon State Parks, can be viewed from one of the short trails along the cape.