There is no shortage of scenic drives on the West Coast. This part of the country offers breathtaking views of the waves on the rocky shores and the lush forests on the bluffs.
One of the most famous highways is Highway 101, which stretches from Los Angeles, California, to Tumwater, Washington. Along this highway, travelers can experience magnificent scenery at Neahkahnie Viewpoint without buildings or towers obstructing the view.
When traveling through Oregon on Highway 101, be sure to stop at Neahkahnie Viewpoint. It has everything you could want in a viewpoint. Don’t forget to bring your camera, it’s breathtaking! Learn more about this scenic viewpoint!
Where is the Neahkahnie viewpoint located?
Neahkahnie Viewpoint is located on Highway 101 in western Oregon, north of Manzanita. From here you can see Neahkahnie Beach.
Continuing north on Highway 101, you’ll pass Oswald West State Park, where you can take miles of hikes or spend a day in the sun at Short Sand Beach. From Portland, Neahkahnie Viewpoint is about a 90-minute drive northwest.
What’s so special about Neahkahnie Viewpoint?
Oregon has over 300 miles of coastline. Along this stretch of Highway 101, there are numerous pullouts and viewpoints that offer travelers breathtaking views of the Pacific coast and the sandy beaches below.
One reason Neahkahnie Viewpoint is so popular is because of its easy accessibility. There is plenty of parking, so you don’t have to drive past the exit for lack of parking. There are also informational signs explaining the history and legends of Neahkahnie Mountain.
However, most travelers do not stop for the informational signs. Although they help to better understand the land, most stop for the breathtaking views. The blue waters of the Pacific Ocean meet the sandy Oregon coast. The mountains towering in the background give a complete picture of the Beaver State’s landscape.
Everything you need to know about the Neahkahnie viewpoint.
When you arrive at Neahkahnie Viewpoint on Highway 101, we have a few tips to make your visit more enjoyable. But don’t stop here. Continue along the route to find more pullouts and viewpoints that offer unique views of the coast.
Directions
If traveling from Portland, take Highway 26 for about 73 miles until it intersects with Highway 101 at the coast. Travel south on Highway 101 for about 15 miles until you reach the overlook. If you are traveling from Tillamook or south of the overlook, take Highway 101 north. From Astoria and north of the Neahkahnie overlook, take Highway 101 south.
What you will see
When you arrive at the parking lot, you’ll find informational plaques about the mountain. You’ll learn that at 1,661 feet, it’s one of the highest points in Oregon, and its name translates to “home of the highest being.” A stone wall forms a barrier, but does not obstruct the view of the coast.
Looking south from Neahkahnie Mountain, you’ll feel like you’re standing on the edge of the world, taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, the Oregon coast, and the mountains towering behind. You might even see a whale, especially during hiking season.
History
Highway 101 once did not include this section from Nehalem around Neahkahnie Mountain to the intersection of Highway 101 and Highway 26, but construction of this section of the byway began in the late 1930s. The overlooks were officially opened in 1941.
The masonry around the lookouts served not only function, but also aesthetic beauty of the view. The creators of the barriers carved them out of the rock of the mountainside. These walls remind travelers that they are actually on the edge of a mountain.
Trails
Neahkahnie Mountain is part of Oswald West State Park. If you want to enjoy an even more beautiful view, you should take one of the park’s hiking trails to the mountain. The South Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain Trail is one of the hot routes.
This trail is a 2.6-mile out-and-back with an elevation gain of 889 feet. You’ll hike through old growth forests until you reach the top for a breathtaking view of the surrounding area.
The North Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain Trail also takes you to the top of the mountain. It is slightly longer at 4 miles round trip. The trails are pet-friendly, so feel free to bring your furry friends along on a leash.
Please note: On any hike, safety should be your top priority! Check out these hiking safety tips that can literally save your life
What should I know about the Neahkahnie Mountain Viewpoint Trail?
The South Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain Trail is quite famous. However, if you’re looking for a loop hike rather than an out-and-back, you can take the south trailhead up the mountain and make a loop by walking the north Neah-Kah-Nie Mountain Trail down from the summit. Most reviewers say they can do the hike in about 90 minutes.
From near Nehalem, hike counterclockwise up Neahkahnie Mountain if you take the north trail. If you want to hike up the south trail and down the north trail instead, stay to the left and hike clockwise. The north trail contains more switchbacks than the south trail, but both can be quite challenging due to the elevation gain.
What is the most scenic part of the Oregon Coast?
It’s pretty hard to rate the views along the Oregon Coast. Whether you visit Astoria, Seaside or Newport, the gorgeous views and quaint coastal towns seem endless.
Cannon Beach is one of the most popular places. Visitors can hike to Haystack Rock or visit Ecola State Park. Whether you paddle, hike, or swim in the tide pools, the beauty of Oregon is here in Cannon Beach.
Don’t forget: Want to go camping in Oregon? Here’s how you can reserve a campsite in Oregon
How many days does it take for a road trip to the Oregon coast?
Depending on what you want to do and how often you want to stop, it’s hard to say how long you’ll experience a road trip on the Oregon Coast. You can drive Highway 101 from Astoria in the north to Brookings in the south. This drive will take you over seven hours if you don’t stop. However, you will want to keep stopping along the way.
To fully appreciate the beauty of the Oregon Coast, plan on at least a weekend stay. If you bring more time with you, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenic coastal towns and overlooks along Highway 101 even more. Perhaps select a few towns to stay in and explore the nearby hiking trails for a memorable week-long vacation.
Is the Neahkahnie lookout point worth it?
You won’t find a better vantage point than Neahkahnie Viewpoint in western Oregon. The beautiful blues of the Pacific Ocean contrasted with the sandy coastline, rocky mountains and lush forests are an artist’s paradise. The unobstructed views from the overlook or summit of Neahkahnie Mountain attract visitors daily.
Will you join them on a journey along the Oregon coast?