• Rockaway Big Tree Trail is a unique hiking destination to an ancient giant red cedar
Rockaway Cedar Preserve Trail, also called Rockaway Big Tree Trail, is a unique hiking destination through the old-growth cedar grove within the small town of Rockaway Beach.
Protected by the Nature Conservancy, a giant western red cedar is a landmark of the trail. This Rockaway Cedar is 154 feet high and 50 feet in circumference, and it is one of the biggest trees in Oregon. Its age is estimated to be between 500 and 900 years.
This hike will take you through the old-growth coastal bog, spruce swamp, western red-cedar, willow, and Sitka spruce trees. Skunk-cabbage and other unique flora of the Oregon coastal ecosystem are growing in the marshlands.
The hike is a developed accessible boardwalk with a trailhead starting off Highway 101. This trail is a 1.2-mile easy loop walk with an elevation of only 20 feet. You can also enjoy the picnic at one of the boardwalk tables.
Rockaway Cedar Preserve Trail is open from sunrise to sunset. Dogs are welcome but must be on a leash. One of the reasons for the boardwalk is to preserve the sensitive wetland ecosystem, so please stay on it and designated trails, and don't wander into the bog.
Rockaway Big Tree Trail | General Description
Open: Year-round for day-use
Managed by: Rockaway Beach City
Amenities: Picnic tables & benches
Activities: Beach combing, camping, fishing, mushroom hunting, ATV riding, & nature viewing
Day-use fees: None
Accommodations: Lodging in Rockaway Beach
Rockaway Big Tree Trail is located:
- 25 miles south of Cannon Beach
- 85 miles west of Portland.
Adventures Nearby
Driving Directions to Rockaway Big Tree Trailhead
From Cannon Beach,
- Travel 27 miles south in Highway 101 to the destination on the left (east).
The trailhead is located at the southern town's entrance on the east side of Highway 101.