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Hiking trails & Routes

Lincoln County

Newport

Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail

Routes

Hiking trails & Routes

Lincoln County

Newport

Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail

Easy

hikers

Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail

Q: Where can I park for the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail?

Parking is available within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. Restrooms are also conveniently located at the trailhead.

Q: What is the terrain like on this trail?

The route combines two distinct experiences. The Salal Hill Trail involves a mild to gradual uphill climb, offering ocean views and panoramic vistas from the summit. The Lighthouse Trail , particularly around the Yaquina Head Lighthouse , is typically paved and generally flat, providing easy access and sweeping ocean views.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to access the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area?

Yes, access to the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area generally requires a fee. However, non-motorized access (like hiking or biking in) is free, as is entry with a Senior National Park Pass.

Q: What wildlife can I expect to see along the way?

This area is fantastic for wildlife viewing! You might spot bald eagles, spouting whales (especially gray whales during migration seasons), seals, and various seabirds like murres and peregrine falcons. Cobble Beach, accessible via the Lighthouse Trail, is excellent for observing tide pool life such as purple urchins, sea stars, and anemones at low tide.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Spring brings blooming irises, while summer is ideal for spotting bald eagles. Gray whales are often seen during their migration seasons. The stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities make it a rewarding hike throughout much of the year, but checking local weather is always a good idea.

Q: Is the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail dog-friendly?

The provided information does not specify dog policies for the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail or the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. It's best to check the official Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area website or contact them directly for current regulations regarding pets.

Q: What notable landmarks or viewpoints will I encounter?

You'll get close-up views of the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse , which has guided ships since 1873. From the summit of Salal Hill , you'll enjoy panoramic 360-degree vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Colony Rock, and even distant landmarks like the Yaquina Bay Bridge.

Q: Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

The Salal Hill Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. The Lighthouse Trail often involves a loop around the Yaquina Head Lighthouse or a path from the Interpretive Center, connecting to other areas like Cobble Beach.

Q: Does this route intersect with other trails?

Yes, the route officially includes the Lighthouse Trail and the Salal Hill Trail . It also briefly passes through a section of the Quarry Cove Trail .

Q: What's an insider tip for visiting Cobble Beach?

For the best tide pooling experience at Cobble Beach, plan your visit during low tide. This is when you'll have the best chance to explore and discover the vibrant marine life, including purple urchins, sea stars, and anemones.

00:27

1.65km

30m

Hiking

Embark on an easy hike along the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail, a rewarding journey within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. This route covers 1.0 miles (1.6 km) with a gentle elevation gain of 109 feet (33 metres), making it perfect for a quick outing that takes around 27 minutes. As you explore, you'll encounter varied coastal terrain and stunning views. From the top of Salal Hill, you can enjoy panoramic 360-degree vistas of the vast Pacific Ocean, the distinctive Colony Rock, and the historic Yaquina Head Lighthouse. The trail also brings you close to the impressive 93-foot tall lighthouse itself, offering unique perspectives.

When planning your visit, be aware that motorized vehicles entering the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area require a fee. However, if you arrive by non-motorized means, access is free. You can also use a Senior National Park Pass for entry, which is a convenient option. Restrooms are available right at the trailhead, ensuring comfort before and after your hike. For the best experience exploring the tide pools at Cobble Beach, plan your visit during low tide.

This trail is notable for its rich opportunities to observe coastal wildlife. Keep a keen eye out for majestic bald eagles soaring overhead, and you might even spot whales or seals in the ocean waters. The route provides direct access to Cobble Beach, where you can delve into fascinating tide pools and discover marine life. It's a fantastic way to connect with the natural environment and appreciate the diverse ecosystem of the Oregon coast.

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through a protected area

Please check local regulations for:

Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

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176 m

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Highlight • Monument

Located a little north of Newport, Yaquina Head Lighthouse sits on the peninsula of the same name. With a height of 93 feet, it is the tallest lighthouse in Oregon and a popular landmark. The lighthouse was part of multiple series and movies, of which 'The Ring' (2002) is probably the best known.

Tip by

1.04 km

Salal Hill

Highlight • Summit

Salal Hill is reached via a 0.7-mile out-and-back trail located within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. As you climb, you get panoramic views of the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, Colony Rock, and the Pacific Ocean. The trail is well-maintained, with a gravel path that includes several switchbacks leading to the summit. Along the way, you can enjoy diverse plant life, like salal plants, blue-eyed grass, irises, and cow parsnip, and wildlife sightings, such as bald eagles and maybe even gray whales. Dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash.

Tip by

1.65 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

1.12 km

447 m

< 100 m

Surfaces

1.12 km

449 m

< 100 m

Elevation

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Weather

Thursday 7 May

14°C

8°C

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park for the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail?

Parking is available within the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. Restrooms are also conveniently located at the trailhead.

What is the terrain like on this trail?

The route combines two distinct experiences. The Salal Hill Trail involves a mild to gradual uphill climb, offering ocean views and panoramic vistas from the summit. The Lighthouse Trail, particularly around the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, is typically paved and generally flat, providing easy access and sweeping ocean views.

Are there any fees or permits required to access the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area?

Yes, access to the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area generally requires a fee. However, non-motorized access (like hiking or biking in) is free, as is entry with a Senior National Park Pass.

What wildlife can I expect to see along the way?

This area is fantastic for wildlife viewing! You might spot bald eagles, spouting whales (especially gray whales during migration seasons), seals, and various seabirds like murres and peregrine falcons. Cobble Beach, accessible via the Lighthouse Trail, is excellent for observing tide pool life such as purple urchins, sea stars, and anemones at low tide.

What is the best time of year to hike this trail?

Spring brings blooming irises, while summer is ideal for spotting bald eagles. Gray whales are often seen during their migration seasons. The stunning coastal scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities make it a rewarding hike throughout much of the year, but checking local weather is always a good idea.

Is the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail dog-friendly?

The provided information does not specify dog policies for the Salal Hill and Lighthouse Trail or the Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area. It's best to check the official Yaquina Head Outstanding Natural Area website or contact them directly for current regulations regarding pets.

What notable landmarks or viewpoints will I encounter?

You'll get close-up views of the iconic Yaquina Head Lighthouse, which has guided ships since 1873. From the summit of Salal Hill, you'll enjoy panoramic 360-degree vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Colony Rock, and even distant landmarks like the Yaquina Bay Bridge.

Is this a loop trail or an out-and-back?

The Salal Hill Trail is primarily an out-and-back route. The Lighthouse Trail often involves a loop around the Yaquina Head Lighthouse or a path from the Interpretive Center, connecting to other areas like Cobble Beach.

Does this route intersect with other trails?

Yes, the route officially includes the Lighthouse Trail and the Salal Hill Trail. It also briefly passes through a section of the Quarry Cove Trail.

What's an insider tip for visiting Cobble Beach?

For the best tide pooling experience at Cobble Beach, plan your visit during low tide. This is when you'll have the best chance to explore and discover the vibrant marine life, including purple urchins, sea stars, and anemones.

Is the Lighthouse Trail accessible for everyone?

Yes, the paved sections of the Lighthouse Trail, particularly around the Yaquina Head Lighthouse, are generally rated as easy and are accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.