June 21 is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, the start of summer, and “National Naked Hiking Day!” We’ll celebrate National Naked Hiking Day at one of the truly amazing places on the Oregon Coast.
Cascade Head trail is steep in areas 7 miles in and out with a 1200 foot elevation gain. Dogs are not permitted on this trail. This is a moderately used trail, by hiking naked on Monday evening there shouldn’t be too many people using the trail. Still, you may want to have a sarong to cover up with if we meet other hikers.
The climb steep in areas, sometimes on stairs through an old-growth coastal forest. Doug fir and spruce dominate the area. The trail crosses a couple of small streams on new bridges, then enters a virtual tunnel of undergrowth. Leaving the forest and entering the headland meadow. The views are immediately tremendous to the south. The Salmon River Estuary dominates an ocean view that extends to Lincoln City. There’s a small oasis of trees is a draw, then the trail again hits the open slopes. The trail traverses along the ridge at about the 500-foot level, finally coming to a northern view, down a cliff to the Pacific. From there, the trail begins climbing the slope. After several switchbacks, it levels out somewhat as we approach the upper viewpoint, 1200 feet above sea level. There is a semi-secret field above the upper viewpoint. Where we can sunbathe and enjoy the 360-degree views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. Finishing with a spectacular ocean sunset Expect 3 and a half to 4 hours. Bring a light in maybe getting dark by the time we return to the trailhead.

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