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Cape Foulweather: not a foul view
by Halle Renn
Just south of Depoe Bay, Cape Foulweather rises 500 feet above the ocean, creating fantastic views of
the Central Oregon coast. It is given the moniker “where Oregon began” as it is the first land formation
seen by Captain Cook on that fateful voyage in 1778. While it was named for the terrible weather conditions
Cook encountered here, this basalt headland is a true gem of Oregon’s natural beauty. Standing at the viewpoint
on a calm and sunny summer day, you are more than likely to have unbeatable views of Gray whales cavorting and
feeding in the abundant kelp beds below.
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Cape Foulweather, photo by Steve Griffiths
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Cape Foulweather, photo by Steve Griffiths
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Looking south from the cape viewpoint you are treated to a stunning view of the famous Devil’s Punchbowl
and the craggy beaches of Otter Rock. The Punchbowl is a spectacular and imposing cave that is inundated
with water during high tide. During these tide events, the bowl churns and roils the ocean water angrily,
creating fascinating and awe-inspiring viewing. Gulls and Cormorants are commonly seen as they move to and
from Gull Rock in the distance.
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On the other side lies a one-way road that winds its way up the north side of the cape. The Otter Crest Loop Road
begins near Rocky Creek and Rodea Point and gives one spectacular view after another.
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Cape Foulweather, photo by Steve Griffiths
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Black Oystercatcher at Rocky Creek, photo by dawn v
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Black Oystercatchers, Surfbirds,
and Black Turnstones can be seen at the rocky viewpoints and as you drive higher towards the top of the Cape you
may be lucky enough to view a Bald Eagle or two soaring between the cliffs.
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The road up offers a nice respite from the
traffic of Highway 101. Whether biking or driving, take in the ancient and dramatic forest scenery and enjoy those
clifftop views.
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Otter Crest Loop view, photo by dawn v
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Learn how you can TAKE ACTION to protect our rocky coast.
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IMPORTANT LINKS
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The Oregon Coast Rocks!
The Oregon Coast Rocks! printable flyer [PDF]
Managing our Rocky Coast [PDF]
Frequently Asked Questions
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Cape Foulweather
Cape Foulweather information sheet
Cape Foulweather: Not a Foul View (essay)
Cape Foulweather printable flyer [PDF]
Cape Lookout
Cape Lookout information sheet
Looking out for Cape Lookout (essay)
Cape Lookout printable flyer [PDF]
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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
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Five reasons to protect rocky habitats [PDF]
Five reasons to protect kelp [PDF]
Birds that rely on our Coastal Habitats
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Oregon Ocean Information: Rocky Habitat Management Strategy
The Oregon Nearshore Strategy
Citizen's Guide to Oregon's Coastal Management Program
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