The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Cannon Beach, OR to Crescent City, CA
Cannon Beach, Oregon, and Crescent City, California are two of the most iconic coastal towns in the United States. Both locations offer breathtaking natural scenery, world-renowned beaches, delicious seafood, and a plethora of outdoor activities. This road trip is perfect for those looking for an adventure. The journey can take anywhere from 6-8 hours, depending on the number of stops and detours. The halfway point of Cottage Grove, OR offers a quaint and charming location to stop and stretch your legs before continuing on.
Top Five Things to Do
Haystack Rock - Cannon Beach, OR
Haystack Rock is one of the most photographed landmarks on the Oregon coast. This giant monolith stands at 235 feet and is home to many seabirds, tide pools, and scenic trails. Visitors can spend hours exploring the area and taking in the stunning views. Haystack Rock is a must-see for anyone visiting Cannon Beach.
Interesting fact: Haystack Rock is a protected Marine Garden, and visitors are not allowed to climb or disturb the area around the rock.
Hiking in Siskiyou National Forest - Cave Junction, OR
Siskiyou National Forest is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. The forest spans over 1.8 million acres and offers endless hiking opportunities. Visitors can explore old-growth forests, waterfalls, and stunning views at every turn. A standout hike in the area is taking the Eight Dollar Mountain Trail. This trail is a little over 3 miles roundtrip and takes hikers through rolling meadows, wildflowers, and stunning views of the Illinois River Valley.
Interesting fact: Siskiyou National Forest is home to Oregon's largest population of Roosevelt Elk.
Rogue River Gorge - Prospect, OR
Rogue River Gorge is a geological masterpiece. The gorge was formed by centuries of erosion from the Rogue River. The result is a stunning 40-foot-deep canyon with smooth stone walls that give a layered effect. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the area, take pictures, and enjoy the natural beauty that surrounds them.
Interesting fact: The Rogue River is home to one of the largest remaining runs of Chinook Salmon in the US.
Trees of Mystery - Klamath, CA
Trees of Mystery is a unique attraction in Klamath, CA, that offers visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty of the Redwood Forest. Visitors can take a gondola ride through the treetops, hike the forest trails, and learn about the history and culture of the area. Trees of Mystery is a fun and educational stop for families, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature.
Interesting fact: Trees of Mystery is home to rare albino redwood trees, which are estimated to be 300-400 years old.
Stout Grove - Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, CA
Stout Grove is a standout location in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. The grove is home to some of the largest and oldest trees in the world, many of which stand over 300 feet tall. Visitors can take a leisurely hike through the grove, take in the breathtaking views of the towering trees, and experience the awe-inspiring wonder of nature.
Interesting fact: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is home to the tallest tree in the world, known as Hyperion. The tree stands at 379.7 feet tall.
Conclusion
This road trip from Cannon Beach, Oregon, to Crescent City, California, offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most iconic and breathtaking natural scenery in the United States. With stops at Haystack Rock, Siskiyou National Forest, Rogue River Gorge, Trees of Mystery, and Stout Grove, visitors can experience the beauty and wonder of nature up close and personal. The trip can take anywhere from 6-8 hours, depending on the number of stops and detours, but the memories will last a lifetime.