Since we came to Florence, I have been spending a lot of time at the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. Cape Perpetua is approximately 35 minutes north of Florence, accessible via the 101, making it an easy drive if you’re staying in Florence. It is a fantastic place; there are hikes of varying lengths that take you through old-growth forests or down to the ocean. Several natural phenomena at Cape Perpetua are worth visiting. It is the location of Thor’s Well, the Sprouting Horn, and the Devil’s Churn, created by volcanic lava flowing into the Pacific Ocean thousands of years ago. The area also offers over 26 miles of hiking. The Cape Perpetua Overlook is the highest point on the coast that you can reach by car, allowing you to look down the shore for miles and miles.
I’ve done several of the longer hikes with my new friend Melanie in the old-growth forests. You can reach an elevation gain of up to 1,400 feet. Needless to say, my calves are feeling it. But there is something mystical about hiking through these forests. Moss hangs from the trees, and a mist from the ocean is frequently in the air; they are filled with lush, verdant plant life. It has also been interesting to see the diversity of mushrooms and fungi that thrive in the moisture-laden atmosphere.
Cooks Ridge Trail to Gwynn Creek Trail
Cummins Creek Trail to Gwynn Creek Trail
Amanda’s Trail
When visiting the coast at Cape Perpetua, the volcanic activity from thousands of years ago is evident in the rocky shore along the ocean. Many of the natural phenomena were caused by lava flowing into the cold water of the Pacific Ocean. The extremely hot lava and the cold water interacted to create black basalt rock formations, which now interact with the ocean on a daily basis. I would highly suggest visiting at high tide, it’s when you see the most reaction between the water and the rock formations.
Thor’s Well
Sprouting Horn
Devil’s Churn and Tide Pools
If you’re not much of a hiker, you can easily access these areas by parking along Highway 101 at Cook’s Chasm and walking down paved walkways. If you are a hiker, I suggest visiting the visitor’s center, where you can obtain information on the many trails in the area, including their elevation and difficulty levels.
When hiking in Cape Perpetua, I highly suggest trekking poles, waterproof boots or shoes, and the 10 Essentials. One of the things I noticed when hiking the trails is that there are spots that are frequently wet and rocky. I have primarily been hiking on weekdays, so it has allowed Melanie and me to enjoy the forest for the most part, completely undisturbed. I’m not sure if this is different on the weekends, but it would be a good idea to be prepared, because you may not see anyone else once you hit the trails. Some of the trails are dog-friendly, but it is always a good idea to double-check before heading out. I would also ensure that you were carrying water for your dog, as there are long stretches of the trail where you wouldn’t be able to filter water if needed. It is worth noting that this area is home to cougars, black bears, and coyotes.
Overall, I look forward to spending more time exploring the trails in Cape Perpetua and experiencing the Oregon Coast.
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