Whether you want to hike, picnic on a bluff overlooking Terrible Tilly, or spot bald eagles and whales, Ecola State Park is a must-visit on the north end of Cannon Beach. The park’s 1,023 acres of beauty is so impressive that several films, including “Twilight” and “The Goonies,” have filmed scenes here. Tip: A free app called “Set Jetter” will guide you to the exact shooting location to re-create your own pictures. Paved trails and a picnic area offer views of Tillamook Rock Lighthouse — aka Terrible Tilly — perched on a basalt rock a mile offshore. The park’s northernmost beach, Indian Beach, sits at the base of Tillamook Head’s southern slope. Both Ecola Point and Indian Beach offer day hikes, including along the Oregon Coast Trail. The offshore rocks you’ll see are nesting sites for many species of seabirds. Sea lions and harbor seals also give birth to their pups on some of the same rocky islands — never approach them. The higher vantage points make for great spring and winter whale watching. Stay on designated trails and wear appropriate footwear and clothes — it’s muddy even in summer — and visit midweek to avoid crowds. The road is narrow with no place to turn around, so RVs and trailers beware; additionally, there’s no overnight parking. Check the park’s website for road closures, and plan to purchase a $10 day-use permit at the park if you don’t already have an Oregon State Park pass. Ecola State Park OUTDOORS DAN RICE Ecola State Park 26 Cannon Beach Visitor Guide
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