CANNON BEACH Ore. – The western section of Clatsop Loop, including the Lighthouse Trail at Ecola State Park, is currently closed due to an active landslide. This closure has disrupted plans for many visitors hoping to enjoy the scenic trail, which offers breathtaking oceanfront views.
According to Oregon Parks and Recreation, it remains unclear when the trail will be reopened. As a result, the agency is urging the public to respect the closure and avoid the area. Safety is the top priority, as the ongoing landslide poses significant risks to hikers and visitors.
The weekend brought pleasant weather to Cannon Beach, drawing large crowds to Ecola State Park. Visitors were eager to take advantage of the sunny conditions, but many found their plans altered by the unexpected closure of the Lighthouse Trail.
Alexei Peters, a visitor from Manzanita, was hoping to hike the trail with his son. “There are times like this and yesterday, especially, when it was just beautiful and calm and sunny,” he said. However, the trail’s entrance was blocked by a sign that read, “Absolutely no entry. Active Landslide.”
“It’s too bad because there’s pretty views that we’re going to miss,” Peters remarked. He acknowledged the disappointment but remained positive about the overall experience.
Michael Diamond, who is from Portland, shared a similar sentiment. “Bummed out but there’s a lot of beautiful stuff here anyway,” he said. Despite the setback, both Peters and Diamond chose to enjoy the other attractions in the area.
A Facebook post from the Cannon Beach Police Department highlighted the dangers posed by the landslide. It mentioned that parts of the trail are eroding directly into the ocean, creating hazardous conditions.
Diamond noted the signs of landslides that were visible during his visit. “We saw yesterday, lots of signs of landslides,” he said. “So, we were pretty cautious coming out here.” Peters echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need for caution. “There’s lots of steep cliffs around here,” he added.
Despite the challenges, visitors like Diamond and Peters made the most of their time on the Oregon Coast. They took the opportunity to support local businesses and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
“Come out here, support local businesses; it’s still beautiful,” Diamond said. He encouraged others to explore the region while avoiding areas affected by the landslide. “Just don’t go anywhere where there’s landslides,” he advised.
For now, the closure of the Lighthouse Trail serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the environment. While it may have disappointed some hikers, it also highlights the importance of safety and responsible recreation. Visitors are encouraged to stay informed about trail conditions and follow all posted guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
