Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Cascade Head Preserve is located along the stunning Oregon coast near the town of Lincoln City. Managed by The Nature Conservancy in partnership with local and federal agencies, the preserve encompasses approximately 2,800 acres of headlands, estuaries, and forested slopes rising sharply from the Pacific Ocean. The landscape features coastal bluffs, old-growth Douglas fir forests, salt marshes, and grassy meadows, all supporting a complex ecosystem. Cascade Head is part of the larger Cascade Head UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its international importance for ecological conservation and research. The preserve supports several rare and endemic plant species and is an important habitat for wildlife such as Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and migrating seabirds. Visitors are drawn to the preserve for hiking on well-maintained trails that culminate in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Salmon River estuary below. The Cascade Head Trail is a favorite for its varied terrain, crossing open meadows and dense forest. Birdwatchers appreciate the preserve’s role as an important stopover on the Pacific Flyway. The area has a rich cultural history, including Native American use and later scientific studies aimed at preserving native coastal prairie ecosystems. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy year-round visits for walking, wildlife viewing, and photography, with easier access from U.S. Highway 101 and nearby towns.
