Coastal Hiking & Scenic Views at Cascade Head Preserve - Upper Trailhead

Cascade Head Preserve, located near Otis, Oregon, offers an unforgettable blend of steep coastal cliffs, lush forests, and expansive ocean views along the central Oregon coast. This natural preserve stands out for its dramatic topography where dense old-growth Sitka spruce forests give way to open coastal prairies that overlook the vast Pacific Ocean. Hikers at the Upper Trailhead find themselves winding through shady, moss-draped trees before bursting onto sunny prairie slopes that reveal breathtaking panoramas of shoreline, estuary, and rugged cliffs.

The area's unique geography includes towering headlands rising around 1,200 feet above sea level, with mesmerizing views of the Salmon River estuary below. These headlands are part of a rare ecological region, blending temperate rainforest with coastal grasslands, home to diverse wildlife such as Roosevelt elk and various bird species. The trail itself traverses wooden footbridges, natural creeks, and forested pathways, offering both challenge and serenity.

Cascade Head Preserve is also linked to notable restoration efforts, including the Salmon Creek estuary project, which has helped revive vital habitats. The combination of rich flora, geological elevation, and conservation history makes this preserve an outstanding destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking pristine, wild coastal beauty without the crowds. The Upper Trailhead serves as a gateway to a moderate yet highly rewarding hike that presents some of the Oregon coast's most iconic natural scenes.