The best walks and hikes around Garibaldi

The Cape Meares Viewpoint and Octopus Tree Trail offers an engaging and accessible hiking experience, characterized by its unique natural features and stunning coastal scenery. You'll explore ancient coastal forests, marvel at the distinctive Octopus Tree with its sprawling limbs, and enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean from the Cape Meares Lighthouse. The terrain is mostly easy, though some sections can be damp.

This easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) hiking route involves about 807 feet (246 metres) of elevation gain and takes approximately 1 hour and 24 minutes to complete. Parking is available at Cape Meares State Park. Sturdy footwear is recommended, especially after rain, as some paths can get muddy. It's a fantastic spot for whale watching during migration seasons and observing nesting seabirds in spring and summer.

Part of the Cape Meares National Wildlife Refuge, the area preserves old-growth coastal forests and rugged cliffs, hosting one of North America's largest nesting seabird colonies. Keep an eye out for common murres, tufted puffins, and even peregrine falcons. The Octopus Tree itself is an Oregon Heritage Tree, estimated to be 250 to 300 years old, adding a touch of botanical wonder to your visit.

Hike the moderate 9.1-mile Bayocean Peninsula trail, offering diverse coastal scenery, bay views, and a glimpse into a lost city's history.

The Rockaway Big Tree Boardwalk offers a unique, easy journey into an ancient wetland forest. You'll stroll along a well-maintained wooden boardwalk, designed to protect the sensitive ecosystem, passing through lush greenery and past massive skunk cabbage before reaching the impressive Oregon Champion Red Cedar. This 0.6-mile (0.9 km) hike with only 21 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain is a quick, immersive experience, taking just about 14 minutes.

Accessing the Rockaway Big Tree Boardwalk is simple, as it's located conveniently just off Highway 101 in Rockaway Beach, Oregon. Parking is available at the trailhead, making it an easy stop for anyone traveling through the area. The trail's exceptional accessibility means it's suitable for families with strollers and individuals using wheelchairs, and it can be enjoyed year-round.

The highlight of this trail is undoubtedly the "Big Tree," a venerable Western Red Cedar estimated to be between 800 and 1,200 years old, standing at an impressive 154 feet tall. The boardwalk itself is a testament to thoughtful design, allowing visitors to experience this old-growth forest without disturbing its delicate wetland environment. It's a perfect example of family friendly hikes in the region, offering a serene escape into nature.

The Barview Jetty Beach Walk offers a captivating coastal experience, blending expansive sandy beaches with the impressive Barview Jetty, a structure where human ingenuity meets the ocean's ferocity. This easy 2.9-mile (4.7 km) hike, with a minimal 18 feet (6 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 1 hour and 11 minutes, making it a perfect option for a leisurely stroll. You'll enjoy rolling sand dunes, coastal forests, and the chance to spot the iconic Three Graces Rock Formation at low tide, providing picturesque ocean views throughout.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with Barview Jetty County Park offering convenient amenities like ample parking, restrooms, and picnic sites right at the trailhead. While much of the walk is on packed sand, be prepared for sections of soft sand or driftwood, which can add a bit more effort. If you venture onto the jetty itself, be aware that the path becomes a jumble of huge, uneven rocks further out, requiring careful footing and vigilance against powerful waves. Low tide is ideal for exploring tide pools and getting the best views of the Three Graces.

What makes this one of the popular hikes near Barview Jetty is its unique combination of natural beauty and historical significance. The area is home to the last remaining Life-Saving Service station in Oregon, active from 1908 to 1943, adding a rich historical layer to your outing. Beyond the history, the diverse coastal landscape, from sandy shores to coastal forests, and the opportunity for bird-watching and observing sea stars, make this a truly notable destination on the Oregon Coast.