Tillamook Head - Uncharted
Uncharted is a challenge series created by Mack Robertson for the Greater Portland area that aims to get you out exploring new areas with pre-planned routes. While each area we highlight may not be new to you, we hope it inspires you to explore some lesser-known areas.
HOW IT WORKS
1. Complete one of the listed routes below.
2. Log your run here. Once reviewed, you will receive an email with a merit badge. If you complete between the dates of March 1st - March 31st, this badge of completion awards you $10 in store credit for any Territory products.
3. For each challenge we will also offer a grand prize package. To be entered to win, complete the route between above dates, log it here, and tag us in a photo from your run on instagram.
4. To increase chances of winning grand prize you can also log that you visited post run locations listed below.
We will have Uncharted routes throughout the year and you can collect merit badges from each for discounts to the Territory Run shop.
You can join the Uncharted Strava Group here.
TILLAMOOK HEAD BACKGROUND
Tucked along Oregon’s stunning coastline, the Tillamook Head Trail is a treasure of dense forests, rugged cliffs, and jaw-dropping views of the Pacific Ocean. Starting south of Seaside, this route offers an unbeatable mix of coastal rainforest and panoramic ocean vistas. And just 90 minutes from Portland, this coastal escape is more than doable as a casual day trip.
Our turn-around for this route is Indian Beach, a pristine cove in Ecola State Park. I have fond memories of coming to this rugged shoreline as a kid, searching for hermit crabs in the tide pools. Offshore, jagged sea stacks (similar to the iconic Haystack Rock) rise from the water, remnants of the basaltic lava flows that shaped the Oregon coast millions of years ago.
Perched on a solitary basalt outcrop a mile offshore, Tillamook Rock Lighthouse, nicknamed "Terrible Tilly," is a striking and storied landmark visible from the Tillamook Head Trail. Built in 1881 under harrowing conditions, with workers battling violent storms and crashing waves, the lighthouse served as a beacon for mariners navigating the treacherous Oregon coast. Decommissioned in 1957 after decades of wear and tear, it now stands as a weathered relic of maritime history, its rusting silhouette a haunting reminder of the unforgiving power of the Pacific.
Tillamook Head is part of the Pacific Coast Range, formed millions of years ago during a series of massive basaltic lava flows that extended from eastern Oregon to the Pacific Ocean. These flows cooled and eroded over time, creating the dramatic cliffs and headlands that define the coastline today. As you run along the trail, you’re moving through a landscape shaped by time, water, and relentless ocean winds.
THE ROUTE
11 Mile Route GPX File
Our route begins at the Tillamook Head Trailhead, tucked just south of Seaside. Within the first few steps, you’re enveloped by a canopy of towering Sitka spruce and Western hemlock, their trunks draped in moss and lichen. The trail wastes no time gaining elevation, climbing steadily through lush undergrowth of sword ferns and salal. The trail can be muddy and rooty in spots, especially after heavy rain, but that’s par for the course on the Oregon coast.
At a little less than 2 miles you reach the top of the big climb. The trail doesn't completely flatten out, but becomes more rolling. It is here that you will cross a lot of little foot bridges that were seemingly installed to avoid the inevitable mudpits that form. The forest begins to open up, (theoretically) offering glimpses of the Pacific Ocean through the trees. On the day we decided to enjoy the route, Tillamook Head was pretty fully socked in. In my opinion, this route is beautiful regardless of the weather. The views are just a nice perk if you're lucky enough to receive them.
The next few miles are quintessential Oregon coast: a mix of rolling climbs and descents, mud-slicked singletrack, and lush greenery on all sides. The trail is rugged but runnable, with enough variability to keep things interesting without becoming overwhelming.
At around 4 miles in, you’ll come to Hikers Camp, a small collection of rustic shelters managed by Oregon State Parks. These three-sided huts, complete with picnic tables and log benches, are a favorite spot for backpackers and trail runners to take a break. Nearby, you’ll find a short spur trail leading to a viewpoint overlooking the ocean. On a clear day this is one of the best views from the trail offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and "Terrible Tilly."
From Hikers Camp, the trail descends steeply toward Indian Beach. As you lose elevation, the sound of the ocean grows louder, and the scent of salt fills the air. You'll know you're getting close as you encounter more and more hikers climbing up to Tillamook Head from Indian Beach below. We were fortunate enough to get a glimpse of the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse at a viewpoint as we descended down to the beach.
You’ll emerge onto the sandy expanse of Indian Beach, a secluded cove nestled within Ecola State Park. Surrounded by towering cliffs and rocky headlands, Indian Beach feels like a hidden paradise. It’s a perfect spot to pause, refuel, and soak in the beauty of the Oregon coast before turning around to tackle the climb back to Tillamook Head.
Our route will retrace its steps back to our car at the Tillamook Head Trailhead. After the run, enjoy a nice lunch or dinner at one of the many delicious restaurants and breweries in Seaside or Cannon Beach.