The best road cycling routes in Nehalem Bay State Park

The Nehalem River is a breathtaking waterway that boasts diverse wildlife, both on land and in the water, from majestic elk and black-tailed deer to playful river otters and busy beavers. Below the surface, the river is teeming with salmon and other fish. As you ride along, you might spot a northern spotted owl, an osprey, or even a golden eagle in the sky. In 2019, the river was designated a “State Scenic Waterway” to protect its corridor, wildlife, and stunning scenery.

Haystack Rock is a basalt sea stack that reaches a height of 235 feet (71.63m). From April to September, bring binoculars to view the puffins flying in and out of the crevices as they nest for the season. You can view other seabirds during spring, including murres and cormorants. During low tide, you can explore the tide pools full of sea stars, anemones, colorful nudibranchs and sea slugs at the base of the rock. Avoid going beyond the signs disallowing passage, as Haystack is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

The North Nehalem Fish Hatchery has a rich history that dates back to 1966 when it was first constructed. This hatchery was built to replace the Foley Creek Hatchery, which had been operational since 1926. Today, it's a modern facility used for adult collection, spawning, and rearing of several fish species, including Chinook, coho, steelhead, and rainbow trout. Visitors can view spawning activity from October to February and learn about the facility through an indoor display.

Haystack Rock is a basalt sea stack that reaches a height of 235 feet (71.63m). From April to September, bring binoculars to view the puffins flying in and out of the crevices as they nest for the season. Other seabirds that can be viewed during spring include murres and cormorants. During low tide, you can explore the tide pools full of sea stars, anemones, colorful nudibranchs and sea slugs at the base of the rock. Avoid going beyond the signs disallowing passage, as Haystack is part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge.

As you travel along the picturesque Highway 101, make sure to take a moment to stop at this magnificent overlook. The stunning view of the vast Pacific Ocean from this spot is sure to take your breath away. The combination of the endless blue water and the rugged coastline is a fantastic opportunity to take some amazing and memorable photos.

Arcadia State Recreation Site is a hidden gem tucked away in a tranquil grove, just a stone's throw from the highway and a few feet from the sandy ocean beach below. It's an ideal spot to stop for a quick break on your way north or south, where you can kick off your shoes and bask in the beauty of the Oregon coast. The site features a small parking area and a well-maintained vaulted toilet.

This viewpoint offers a breathtaking view of the curved coastline, framed by the cliffs that face the ocean. From here, the capes are staggered and create a fantastic panoramic view, which is great for photos. If you look to the north, you'll catch a glimpse of Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock. To the west, you can see the vast expanse of the Pacific Ocean, with the famous Tillamook Rock Lighthouse visible in the distance, and to the south, you can see Arcadia Beach and a hint of the old road at Hug Point.

The Nehalem River is a breathtaking waterway that boasts diverse wildlife, both on land and in the water, from majestic elk and black-tailed deer to playful river otters and busy beavers. Below the surface, the river is teeming with salmon and other fish. As you ride along, you might spot a northern spotted owl, an osprey, or even a golden eagle in the sky. In 2019, the river was designated a “State Scenic Waterway” to protect its corridor, wildlife, and stunning scenery.