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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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USA Parks
Oregon
Oregon Coast Region
Hug Point State Recreation Site
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Hug Point State Recreation Site © Curt Smith from Bellevue, WA, USA / CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
The beach of Hug Point Park in Oregon.
Hug Point State Recreation Site © Jeffhollett / CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Hug Point Waterfall at Pacific Coast in Oregon in The Pacific Northwest Landscapes in The West by Jeff Hollett
Hug Point State Recreation Site © Dana Hutchinson / CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
500px provided description Cliffs along Oregon beach at Hug Point Just south of Canon Beach. Ocean ,Oregon ,Pacific ,Hug point ,Canon Beach
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HUG POINT STATE RECREATION SITE
HUG POINT STATE RECREATION SITE
Beach Access Road
Arch Cape, Oregon   97102
(lat:45.8293 lon:-123.9601) map location

Phone: 800-551-6949
Just south of Cannon Beach, this little wayside gives you easy access to the beach and a peek at some interesting history. Imagine travelling by stagecoach along the beach (before the highway was built, the beach was the only way to go). North of the parking area you can still walk along the original trail carved into the point by the stagecoaches. The wayside was named after this trail because it hugs the point. Looking further north, Haystack Rock?one of the most identifiable landmarks along the coastline?is easily visible.

Caution to visitors; be aware of the tide! It is possible to become stranded at high tide when exploring the point. Take a look at the stagecoach trail, the view of Haystack Rock and the two caves around the point, but have a plan. Pick up a tide book at one of the local shops: have fun and be safe.
History of the Area
Located on the northern Oregon coast, Hug Point has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. The area was originally used by Native American tribes for fishing and hunting before European settlers arrived.

In the late 1800s, stagecoaches utilized this coastal route as there were no highways at that time. To make it passable during high tide, early travelers had to 'hug' close to point of land which gave rise its name - "Hug Point". Evidence of these old trails can still be seen today in form of wheel tracks etched into rocks near beach.

The site also features an historic waterfall where pioneers would wash their horses after long journeys along sandy beaches. Additionally, remnants from failed attempts at road construction are visible; including dynamite blasted cliffs intended for carriage roads but never completed due to advent of modern highway system.

During low tides one may discover sea caves once frequented by smugglers and pirates according local folklore tales.

By mid-20th century with development Highway 101 (Pacific Coast Scenic Byway), need for such dangerous routes diminished significantly making way recreational use instead transportation necessity

It wasn't until later part last century when state recognized unique historical significance natural beauty location decided preserve public enjoyment recreation purposes thus establishing park we know today
Swimming
1. Hug Point State Recreation Site offers beach swimming, though no lifeguards are present.
2. The site features tide pools for safe and shallow wading or snorkeling.
3. Visitors can swim near the waterfall during low tides but must be cautious of changing water levels.
4. Ocean swimming is possible; however, it's recommended only for experienced swimmers due to strong currents and cold temperatures.
5. Swimming around sandstone caves at low tide provides a unique experience but requires caution against incoming tides.



Picnicking
Hug Point State Recreation Site offers picnic tables near the beach, perfect for a meal with stunning ocean views.
Trails
1. Hug Point Trail: This is a 0.4-mile moderately trafficked out and back trail that features beautiful wildflowers, scenic views of the ocean, and access to a historic wagon road.

2. Beach Access Trails: There are several short trails leading from the parking area down to the beach which offer stunning coastal vistas along with opportunities for picnicking or tidepool exploration at low tide.

3. Waterfall Trail: A brief walk northward on this sandy path leads hikers directly towards an enchanting seasonal waterfall cascading onto the beach below - best viewed in winter or spring months after heavy rainfall.

4. Cave Exploration Pathway: Alongside your hike you can explore small caves carved into sandstone cliffs by wave action over thousands of years; these paths may be inaccessible during high tides so plan accordingly!

5. Historic Wagon Road Walkway: The remnants of old pioneer-era wagon roads can still be seen here when hiking southwards around Hug Point - it's like stepping back in time!

6. Tide Pool Paths: At lower tides, there are pathways available where visitors could observe marine life such as starfishes, sea anemones etc., nestled among rocks exposed by receding waters.

7. Forest Loop Trail: For those seeking shade away from sun-drenched beaches,this forested loop offers respite amidst lush greenery while also providing glimpses through trees toward Pacific Ocean beyond.

8. South Headland Climb: It's not officially marked but adventurous souls often scramble up rocky headlands located southern end offering panoramic view across coastline . Caution advised due slippery conditions wet weather/sea spray.

9. North Cove Stroll: Another unmarked route takes one further North past cove until reaching Arch Cape ; ideal spot watching sunset / bird:watching activities.

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Area Campgrounds
Sea Ranch RV Park
415 Fir Street
Cannon Beach, OR
503-436-2815
Thousand Trails Seaside
1703 12th Avenue
Seaside, OR
503-738-0626
Nearby Hotels
Booking.com

Directions
1. Start by getting on US:26 W/US Hwy 30 W from SW Market St and SW Naito Pkwy.
2. Continue driving west on US:26 for approximately 70 miles until you reach Cannon Beach.
3. In Cannon Beach, turn right onto S Hemlock St (signs for Ecola Creek).
4. After about half a mile, continue straight onto Pacific Way.
5. Drive along Pacific Way for another half a mile before turning left onto Highway 101 S/N Roosevelt Dr at the junction near Les Shirley Park & Haystack Rock Rd signpost.
6. Continue southbound on Highway 101 for around nine miles until you see signs indicating Hug Point State Recreation Site parking area to your right:hand side.

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Oregon
26

Oregon State Parks

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