Cape Meares offers beach access and opportunities for hiking, picnicking, viewing scenery, viewing interpretive displays, interpretive tours, viewing wildlife, marine mammals and bird watching.

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 and a peregrine falcon have also been known to nest near here.

The park features tours of an 1890s lighthouse, the Sally Jacobson Interpretive kiosk and interpretive panels at key viewpoints. Cape Meares has over 3 miles of hiking trails and a mile-long walking trail that winds through old-growth spruce trees (including the uniquely shaped Octopus Tree). In winter and spring, this park is an excellent location for viewing whale migrations.

Vital stats: There is no fee to use this park. For information, call 1-800-551-6949.

: The Oregon coast receives abundant rainfall, mostly between October and April. July and August bring the best chance for clear days. Summer temperatures are normally moderate and almost never hot. Winter temperatures are normally cool at the lower elevations and cold at the higher elevations. Although snow is possible in the lowest elevations, it is infrequent and does not stay on the ground for long.

Location: Cape Meares is located on Oregon's North Coast, 10 miles west of Tillamook, off Highway 101.

Contact Info: Oregon Parks & Recreation Department1115 Commercial Street NESalemOR97301-1002800-551-6949