Neskowin, OR

The quiet community of Neskowin is about 15 miles north of Lincoln City on Hwy 101, at milepost 98. You can often wander among the beaches of Neskowin Beach State Recreation Site and stumps of the Ghost Forest alone, with only the sounds of the ocean waves, wind and sea birds to accompany you. Learn more about the trails in Neskowin at the link below.

Neskowin, OR

Upon entrance to the Neskowin Beach, you will see the Proposal Rock looming in the distance. This is your first landmark while looking for the Ghost Forest. During low tide, it's more easily accessible and you can walk all the way around the rock at that time. To access the Ghost Forest, you must cross the Neskowin Creek, which can be up to knee height in some areas. Be prepared to have water shoes or appropriate footwear to cross the water. Towels are optional but useful, as you will be getting wet.

Neskowin, OR

Walk around or hike to the top of Proposal Rock. There is a multitude of natural features, including tide pools, and an arch to explore.

Neskowin, OR

After crossing the Neskowin Creek, you will head south towards a rock that looks somewhat like a shark’s fin, and you will start the see the ancient Sitka Spruce stumps coming out of the sand. The best view of the Ghost Forest is seen by continuing southbound until the stumps stop, and then turning to look northbound towards Proposal Rock, as seen in this video.

Neskowin, OR

Make sure to check the tide charts before planning your trip.Due to its location, it is not accessible at higher tides and can be dangerous if you are not mindful of this. You should only attempt to go here during low or negative tides to avoid getting stranded on the beach.

Neskowin, OR

So what is the story of the Neskowin Ghost Forest, you might ask? The “forest” features remnants of an ancient Sitka spruce forest with the stumps estimated to be about 2000 years old. These stumps are all that remain, which over time became buried under sand, which preserved them. Not until 1997, after a series of storms on the Oregon coast, were they unearthed.

Neskowin, OR

Upon closer inspection, there is a multitude of sea life growing on these tree stumps including barnacles, mussels, plants and even small critters such as crabs and fish in the pools below.

Neskowin, OR

The summertime months are the best time to view the Ghost Forest, as this is when the tides are the lowest, allowing more of the tree stumps to be exposed. Also, the warmer temperatures will make the creek crossing more tolerable. Check the tide charts beforehand, and try to plan your visit for a time when the tides will be negative, and the beach will be fully accessible. Sunset and sunrise are some of the best times to shoot photography of this dramatic, natural landscape.