Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge
Fish and Wildlife Service, Oregon.
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.
Nearby Activities
- Birding
- Hiking
- Historic & Cultural Site
- Observation Site
- Photography
- Wildlife Viewing
Directions
Cape Meares is near the town of Netarts. From Tillamook, take 3rd Street/Netarts Highway to the West. Follow Netarts Highway through the town of Netarts to the refuge. Look for the sign for Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint.
Note: Do not attempt to drive to Cape Meares via Bayocean Road.
As of early 2015, landslide damage has closed a portion of the Cape Meares Loop Road between Cape Meares Wildlife Refuge and the town of Cape Meares accessed via Bayocean Rd. Hikers can still access the refuge from the town of Cape Meares via trails. Drivers should enter the refuge via State Road 131 through Netarts by following the signs in the town of Oceanside.
