3.5
(10)
95
hikers
00:46
3.01km
0m
Hiking
Begin your easy hike to Proposal Rock, a coastal route spanning 1.9 miles (3.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of just 15 feet (5 metres). This gentle walk takes about 45 minutes, offering a relaxing experience along the shore. You'll encounter the iconic sea stack, Proposal Rock, rising from…
Last updated: April 23, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
993 m
Highlight • Natural Monument
1.17 km
Highlight • Beach
Tip by
3.01 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.06 km
686 m
118 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
2.56 km
160 m
124 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Wednesday 20 May
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8°C
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Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
You can typically find parking available at the Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site, which provides direct access to the beach. From the parking area, you'll need to cross a creek to reach the rock, which might require going barefoot depending on the water level.
Yes, the beach walk to Proposal Rock is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is under control, and be mindful of local leash laws and any posted regulations within the Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site.
The walk to Proposal Rock is accessible year-round. However, for the best experience, especially if you wish to see the Ghost Forest or explore the tide pools, visiting during low tide is crucial. Dry weather is also recommended if you plan to attempt climbing the rock.
No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site or to walk to Proposal Rock. It's a publicly accessible beach.
The primary route to Proposal Rock involves walking along the expansive, sandy Neskowin Beach. The sand can have an unusual dark grain. To reach the rock from the parking area, you'll need to cross a creek. If you choose to climb Proposal Rock itself, the terrain becomes much more rugged, featuring steep slopes, rocky footholds, and potentially slippery moss.
Beyond the striking Proposal Rock itself, a major highlight is the nearby Ghost Forest, an ancient collection of Sitka spruce stumps visible at low tide. The base of the rock also features vibrant tide pools, offering opportunities to observe marine life. The entire Neskowin Beach provides dramatic ocean views and is particularly stunning at sunset.
Checking the tide schedule is essential for this visit. The Ghost Forest is only visible during low tide, and exploring the tide pools at the base of Proposal Rock is best done then. If you plan to climb the rock, it's strongly advised to only attempt it during the lowest tides for safety.
The walk to Proposal Rock along the beach is typically an out-and-back route. You walk along the Neskowin Beach to the rock and then return the same way.
Yes, the route along Neskowin Beach is part of the longer Oregon Coast Trail. It also briefly intersects with sections of the Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway, the TransAmerica Trail (Oregon), Independence Avenue, and the Beach Access Trail.
The walk along the sandy Neskowin Beach to Proposal Rock is considered an easy activity and is very suitable for families. Children will enjoy exploring the beach, looking for the Ghost Forest at low tide, and discovering marine life in the tide pools.
While it is possible to climb Proposal Rock, it is a challenging ascent due to its steep slopes, rocky footholds, and potentially slippery moss. It is strongly advised to only attempt climbing during the lowest tides and in dry weather for safety. There are some hidden trails on top offering impressive views.