Best Hiking Trails in Ecola State Park
Hiking is always popular in Ecola State Park thanks to the panoramic vistas and ever-changing cloudscapes. With a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels, all members of the family will be able to take in the beautiful scenery and visit local landmarks. Staying with Ecola State Park hotels will give you the chance to experience the best hiking trails in the park – just remember to pack a picnic for those warm summer days.
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1. Crescent Beach Trail
This two-mile trail takes you to Indian Beach past a few glorious waterfalls. Rated moderate on the difficulty scale, the trail welcomes dogs as long as they are leashed.
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2. Clatsop Loop Trail
Covering 2.7 miles, this moderately difficult trail is accessible all year round and provides excellent views of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse. There are a number of whale watching points along this trail too.
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3. Tillamook Head National Recreation Trail
On this trail you will have the opportunity to hike through the woods and enjoy a picnic at one of the many designated areas. At 12 miles long, you can choose which sections of the trail you wish to hike.
Best Family Activities in Ecola State Park
Families visiting Ecola State Park will have plenty to keep them occupied, particularly if you love spending around the ocean and the great outdoors. From relaxed days on the beach exploring the tidal pools, to exciting afternoons in the surf, Ecola State Park has lots to offer visitors of all ages, and Ecola State Park cabins provide an easy way to enjoy it all.
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1. Tide Pooling
Searching for sea anemones and other aquatic life on Indian Beach is a great way to spend the day with smaller children. Tide pooling will give you a chance to get hands-on with crabs, crayfish, and sea stars as you learn more about these unique habitats.
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2. Whale Watching
The name of Ecola State Park comes from "ikoli," the native word for whale – and it's easy to see why. During both the winter and summer migrations, you will have to opportunity to spot gray whales breaching around now inoperational Tillamook Head Lighthouse.
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3. Surfing
A popular surfing spot, Ecola State Park is perfect for all skill levels depending on the weather. Rarely crowded thanks to the long shoreline of Indian Beach, this scenic stretch of coast is also popular with kayakers.