Post about the coast

A benefit of living in Portland is that you can go to the coast for a day (or even a part of a day). In a little over an hours time, you can drive out to the Pacific Ocean. But first, you must drive through the mountains of the Oregon Coast Range.

The Oregon Coast Range is a majestic stretch of mountains running parallel to the Pacific Ocean. The range spans from about 20 miles west of Portland out to the Ocean. Formed millions of years ago by volcanic activity caused by the subduction of the Pacific plate ... well let's just get to the scenery. Other than a few small towns and the two-lane highway, there was nothing but mountains and trees. The trees came right up to the road in many places and were some of the tallest fur trees we've ever seen! The roads wound around the mountains. But fortunately, no steep drop-offs.

We decided to head to Cannon Beach, about the closest coastal town to Portland. If you have seen any of those movies about coastal towns in the Pacific Northwest, then you probably have an idea of the feel of the town (see The Goonies). We found some public parking and walked out to the beach. Now remember, this is not your "fun-in-the-sun" kind of beach (except for a month or two in the summer). But, it is an awesome beach for taking a walk, enjoying the cool air of the Pacific Ocean, and seeing this:


Haystack Rock! This is a monster outcropping from just off of the beach. Very photogenic and impressive. If you watch the afore mentioned movie, "The Goonies", then you have probably seen this formation. You can't miss it once you get to the beach.

While in town we stopped at a great seafood restaurant, Mo's. We had some clam chowder, clam strips, pop-corn scallops, and bread. A very delicious lunch. If you are ever along the Pacific Coast of Oregon, we would recommend finding one and eating a meal or two there.

Our trip to the coast was only a half-day trip. But we got to see plenty of fur-tree covered mountains, beaches, and the ocean.