Cape Blanco

Cape Blanco

  • Easy (exploration near lighthouse)
  • 1 mile round trip
  • 100 feet elevation gain


  • Moderate (north beach tour)
  • 4-mile loop
  • 250 feet elevation gain



Oregon’s westernmost point was named Cabo Blanco (“White Cape”) on a disastrous 1602 Spanish sea exploration. Most of the crew died of scurvy, and no white men returned for 173 years. Park trails offer views of the picturesque headland and its windswept lighthouse, flashing a white beam to sea since 1870.

Drive …

A post beyond the gate on the right …

For longer hikes, …


This chapter taken from the book 100 Hikes/Travel Guide: Oregon Coast & Coast Range.

The Cape Blanco lighthouse