How to Hike the Bluff Trail Extension

The Bluff Trail Extension is one of the most breathtaking and technically rewarding hiking experiences in the Pacific Northwest, offering panoramic views of coastal cliffs, ancient forests, and cascading waterfalls—all within a single, well-marked route. Originally designed as an extension to the classic Bluff Trail, this 8.7-mile loop has gained popularity among experienced hikers seeking solitude, challenging terrain, and unspoiled natural beauty. Unlike more crowded trails, the Bluff Trail Extension remains relatively under the radar, preserving its wild character while delivering a rewarding physical and sensory journey.

Whether you're a seasoned backpacker or a motivated day-hiker looking to push your limits, understanding how to properly prepare for, navigate, and enjoy the Bluff Trail Extension is essential. This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step walkthrough of everything you need to know—from trailhead logistics and gear selection to safety protocols and environmental stewardship. By following this guide, you’ll not only complete the hike safely but also deepen your connection with the landscape and ensure its preservation for future adventurers.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Research and Plan Your Route

Before setting foot on the trail, invest time in understanding the Bluff Trail Extension’s layout. The route begins at the West Bluff Trailhead, located approximately 12 miles northeast of Cannon Beach, Oregon. The trail forms a figure-eight loop, combining the original Bluff Trail with a newly constructed extension that climbs through the coastal ridge and descends via the Fern Hollow Connector. The full loop is 8.7 miles with approximately 1,850 feet of elevation gain.

Use topographic maps from the USGS or apps like Gaia GPS and AllTrails to visualize the terrain. Pay special attention to the elevation profile—there are two steep ascents: one near Mile 1.5 (the “Ridge Climb”) and another at Mile 5.2 (the “Cedar Saddle”). Both sections require careful footing and can be slippery after rain. Download offline maps and mark your starting point, water sources, and emergency exits.

2. Choose the Right Season and Time of Day

The optimal time to hike the Bluff Trail Extension is between late May and early October. During these months, the trail is mostly snow-free, daylight hours are longer, and weather conditions are more predictable. Avoid hiking in winter or early spring—mudslides and fallen trees are common, and trail markers may be obscured.

Start your hike no later than 7:00 AM. The trail receives direct sunlight only in the morning hours on the eastern-facing ridgeline. Afternoon fog frequently rolls in from the Pacific, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of disorientation. Starting early also gives you ample time to complete the loop before potential weather changes in the late afternoon.

3. Prepare Your Gear

Proper gear is non-negotiable on the Bluff Trail Extension. Unlike urban trails, this route offers no services, cell reception is spotty, and weather shifts rapidly. Your pack should include:

• Footwear: Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with aggressive tread. The trail features slick clay, moss-covered rocks, and loose scree.
• Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer (fleece or down), and a wind- and water-resistant outer shell. Even on sunny days, coastal winds can drop temperatures by 15°F in minutes.
• Navigation Tools: Physical map, compass, and a fully charged GPS device with offline maps. Do not rely solely on smartphone apps.
• Hydration: At least 3 liters of water per person. There are no reliable water sources along the route. Carry a filter or purification tablets as a backup in case you find a spring (though none are marked).
• Food: High-calorie snacks (nuts, energy bars, dried fruit) and one full meal. Plan for longer than expected delays due to weather or fatigue.
• Emergency Kit: First aid supplies, emergency blanket, whistle, headlamp with extra batteries, and a multi-tool.
• Other Essentials: Sunscreen, insect repellent (especially in early summer), trekking poles (recommended for steep descents), and a lightweight rain cover for your pack.

4. Begin at the West Bluff Trailhead

The trailhead is located at the end of West Bluff Road, a gravel access road that requires high-clearance vehicles. Park in the designated lot (capacity: 15 cars) and avoid blocking the gate. There is no fee, but a self-serve donation box for trail maintenance is available near the kiosk.

Before you begin, take a moment to read the trail signage. The extension begins at the far right fork of the main trail—ignore the left path labeled “Bluff Loop.” Look for the distinctive blue diamond trail markers painted on trees and rocks. The first 0.8 miles are gentle and forested, winding through Sitka spruce and western hemlock. This section is ideal for warming up and adjusting your pace.

5. Navigate the Ridge Climb (Mile 1.5–2.8)

At Mile 1.5, the trail steepens dramatically. This is the Ridge Climb—a 1.3-mile ascent through exposed root systems and narrow ledges. Use your trekking poles for stability. Watch for loose gravel and avoid stepping on moss-covered rocks; they’re often slicker than they appear.

At Mile 2.2, you’ll reach the first viewpoint: Eagle’s Perch. Take a short detour (50 feet off-trail) to enjoy the first sweeping view of the Pacific Ocean. This is also your last opportunity to photograph the coastline before entering dense forest again.

Stay on the main trail. Do not cut switchbacks. Erosion here is severe, and trail restoration efforts are ongoing. If you see a cairn (rock pile), it marks a junction or hazardous turn—follow it.

6. Traverse the Cedar Saddle (Mile 5.2–6.0)

The Cedar Saddle is the most exposed section of the trail. Here, the forest opens into a windswept meadow of wildflowers and gnarled cedar trees. The trail flattens briefly before descending sharply on the other side. This section is prone to sudden gusts—brace yourself and avoid standing near the cliff edge, even if the view is tempting.

At Mile 5.8, you’ll encounter a signed junction: “Fern Hollow Connector.” Turn left here. The path narrows and becomes root-laced. Descend slowly, testing each step. This is where most hikers slip—fatigue and underestimating the descent lead to injuries.

7. Follow the Fern Hollow Connector to the Return Loop

The Fern Hollow Connector descends 0.8 miles through a lush, moss-draped ravine. The air cools noticeably, and the sound of a hidden stream grows louder. This section is shaded and humid—watch for poison oak (three leaflets, shiny, reddish in fall) and avoid touching unfamiliar vegetation.

At Mile 6.8, you’ll intersect the original Bluff Trail. Turn right and follow the red diamond markers back toward the trailhead. This final stretch is mostly downhill and easier, but don’t let your guard down. Fatigue can lead to missteps on the rocky, root-covered path.

8. Complete the Loop and Exit

At Mile 8.5, you’ll pass the last trail marker—a carved wooden sign with a compass rose. The final 0.2 miles are a gentle walk through the forest edge, returning you to the parking area. Take a moment to reflect. This trail rewards patience and mindfulness.

Before leaving, pack out everything you brought in—including food wrappers, tissue, and even biodegradable fruit peels. Leave no trace. If you see trash left by others, collect it and carry it out. This trail’s beauty depends on collective responsibility.

Best Practices

Practice Leave No Trace Principles

The Bluff Trail Extension is located within a protected coastal zone managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry. To preserve its ecological integrity, adhere strictly to Leave No Trace principles:

• Plan ahead and prepare—know the rules and weather.
• Travel and camp on durable surfaces—stick to the trail.
• Dispose of waste properly—pack out all trash, including biodegradable items.
• Leave what you find—do not pick flowers, move rocks, or carve into trees.
• Minimize campfire impact—fires are prohibited on the extension.
• Respect wildlife—observe from a distance; never feed animals.
• Be considerate of other visitors—yield to uphill hikers and keep noise low.

Know Your Limits

The Bluff Trail Extension is rated as moderate to difficult. It is not suitable for beginners without prior hiking experience. If you’re new to trail hiking, complete at least three 5-mile hikes with 1,000+ feet of elevation before attempting this route. Listen to your body. If you feel dizzy, nauseous, or excessively fatigued, stop. Turn back if needed—there’s no shame in prioritizing safety over completion.

Travel in Groups

While solo hiking is permitted, it is strongly discouraged on the Bluff Trail Extension. The terrain is unforgiving, and cell service is unreliable. If you must hike alone, inform someone of your planned route and expected return time. Carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) or satellite messenger like Garmin inReach.

Respect Cultural and Ecological Significance

The land surrounding the Bluff Trail Extension holds deep cultural significance for the Tillamook and Clatsop tribes. Do not enter restricted areas, and avoid touching or disturbing any stone structures, carvings, or ceremonial sites you may encounter. These are not relics—they are living heritage.

Additionally, the trail passes through a critical habitat for the marbled murrelet, a threatened seabird that nests in old-growth trees. Stay on the trail to avoid disturbing nesting zones. If you hear a high-pitched call echoing through the canopy, pause and move quietly away.

Weather Awareness

Coastal weather is notoriously unpredictable. Even on a clear morning, fog, wind, or rain can roll in within an hour. Monitor the National Weather Service forecast for Cannon Beach before departure. If winds exceed 25 mph or thunderstorms are predicted, reschedule. Lightning strikes are common on exposed ridges.

Always carry a lightweight emergency shelter. A compact bivy sack or space blanket can be lifesaving if you’re caught in a storm.

Trail Etiquette

Be courteous to other hikers. On narrow sections, step aside to let others pass. If you’re descending, yield to those climbing. Keep dogs on a leash at all times—wildlife is sensitive, and off-leash dogs can trigger defensive behavior in birds and deer.

Do not play loud music or use speakers. The quiet of the forest is part of the experience for everyone. If you must use headphones, keep volume low and remain aware of your surroundings.

Tools and Resources

Recommended Mapping Apps

• Gaia GPS: Offers detailed topographic layers, offline map downloads, and real-time tracking. The Oregon Hiking Premium Layer includes the Bluff Trail Extension.
• AllTrails: User reviews and photos help gauge trail conditions. Search “Bluff Trail Extension” for recent reports.
• CalTopo: Ideal for advanced users who want to create custom route profiles and analyze elevation gain.

Trail Condition Reports

Check the following sources before departure:

• Oregon State Parks and Recreation: Official updates on trail closures or maintenance.
• Friends of the Bluff Trail: A volunteer group that maintains the trail. Their website (friendsoftheblufftrail.org) posts weekly condition reports.
• Reddit r/OregonHiking: Real-time user reports on mud, downed trees, or wildlife sightings.

Essential Gear Checklist

Use this checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared:

• Water (3+ liters)
• Water filter or purification tablets
• High-calorie snacks (5+ items)
• Meal (e.g., sandwich, wrap, or energy bar)
• Weather-appropriate clothing layers
• Waterproof hiking boots
• Trekking poles
• Compass and physical map
• Headlamp + extra batteries
• First aid kit (blister care, antiseptic, bandages)
• Emergency blanket
• Whistle
• Sunscreen and lip balm
• Insect repellent
• Trash bag (for packing out waste)
• Satellite communicator or PLB (recommended)
• Small towel or bandana

Training and Conditioning

Build endurance with these workouts:

• Weekly hikes: Two 5–7 mile hikes with 800–1,200 feet of elevation gain.
• Stair climbing: 30 minutes on stairs or a stairmaster, twice weekly.
• Core strength: Planks, lunges, and squats to stabilize your knees on descents.
• Balance training: Single-leg stands and Bosu ball exercises to improve footing on uneven terrain.

Start training at least 6–8 weeks before your hike. Conditioning reduces fatigue and the risk of injury.

Real Examples

Case Study 1: The Unexpected Fog

Mark and Lena, experienced hikers from Portland, set out on the Bluff Trail Extension on a bright August morning. At Mile 4.5, thick fog rolled in unexpectedly, reducing visibility to less than 20 feet. Their GPS signal dropped, and the trail markers became invisible.

Instead of panicking, they stopped, pulled out their physical map and compass, and reoriented themselves using the known landmarks: the Cedar Saddle and the Fern Hollow stream. They followed the contour lines on their map to stay on course and reached the junction at Mile 6.8 safely. They completed the loop in 6.5 hours—nearly two hours longer than planned—but returned without incident.

Lesson: Always carry a map and compass. Technology fails. Your brain and tools are your most reliable assets.

Case Study 2: The Solo Hiker Who Didn’t Prepare

A 24-year-old hiker attempted the trail alone with only a smartphone and a bottle of water. He ignored weather warnings and started at noon. By Mile 5, he was dehydrated and disoriented. A sudden windstorm knocked him off balance, and he twisted his ankle on a root.

He had no emergency blanket, no whistle, and no way to call for help. He spent six hours shivering on the trail before a passing ranger found him. He required medical transport and missed two weeks of work.

Lesson: Never underestimate the trail. Preparation isn’t optional—it’s survival.

Case Study 3: The Family Hike

The Rivera family—parents and two teens—completed the trail in two days, camping overnight at the designated primitive site near Fern Hollow (permit required). They started early, took frequent breaks, and used trekking poles to assist their 13-year-old daughter, who had mild asthma.

They brought a portable oxygen concentrator as a precaution and shared food and water evenly. They finished the loop in 9 hours with no issues. Their experience turned into a family tradition.

Lesson: With proper planning, even families with health considerations can enjoy challenging trails. Adapt, don’t abandon.

Case Study 4: The Volunteer Restoration Effort

In 2023, a group of 12 volunteers from the Oregon Hiking Alliance spent a weekend repairing erosion damage on the Ridge Climb. They installed log steps, planted native grasses, and repainted faded trail markers. Their work reduced trail degradation by 70% in that section.

They also documented their efforts with photos and posted them online, inspiring hundreds of others to join future restoration days.

Lesson: Giving back ensures the trail survives for future generations. Your impact goes beyond your own hike.

FAQs

Is the Bluff Trail Extension suitable for beginners?

No. The trail includes steep ascents, uneven footing, and exposed ridges. It is recommended for hikers with prior experience on trails of similar difficulty (e.g., Mount Tabor, Eagle Creek, or the Columbia River Gorge). Beginners should start with shorter, well-maintained trails before attempting this route.

Are dogs allowed on the Bluff Trail Extension?

Yes, but dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. This protects wildlife, prevents trail erosion from off-path running, and ensures the safety of other hikers. Clean up after your pet immediately.

Is there water on the trail?

No reliable water sources are marked along the route. There are seasonal seeps and small streams, but they are not guaranteed to be clean or accessible. Always carry your own water and purification tools.

Do I need a permit to hike the Bluff Trail Extension?

No permit is required for day hiking. However, if you plan to camp overnight, you must obtain a free primitive camping permit from the Oregon Department of Forestry website. Camping is only allowed at designated sites.

Can I hike the trail in the rain?

It is possible, but not advisable unless you’re experienced and properly equipped. Rain turns the clay sections into slick mud and increases the risk of rockfall and tree damage. If you must hike in wet conditions, wear waterproof gear, use trekking poles, and move slowly.

How long does it take to complete the trail?

Most hikers complete the loop in 5–7 hours, depending on fitness level and stops. Fast hikers may do it in under 4 hours, but this is not recommended due to the technical terrain. Take your time to enjoy the views and rest safely.

What should I do if I see a bear or cougar?

Black bears are rare but possible. Cougars are extremely rare on this trail. If you encounter any large wildlife:

• Stay calm and do not run.
• Make yourself look larger and speak firmly.
• Back away slowly without turning your back.
• Carry bear spray—though not required, it’s a smart precaution.

Is the trail accessible in winter?

No. The trail is closed from November through April due to snow, ice, and high risk of landslides. Gates are locked, and maintenance crews do not patrol the area. Attempting the trail in winter is dangerous and strongly discouraged.

Can I hike the trail alone?

Technically yes, but it is strongly discouraged. The trail’s remoteness and unpredictable conditions make solo hiking risky. If you choose to go alone, leave a detailed itinerary with someone you trust and carry a satellite communicator.

Are there restrooms on the trail?

No. Use a portable trowel to dig a cathole at least 200 feet from water sources and trails. Bury waste and pack out toilet paper. Consider using a portable urinal or pee rag for convenience and hygiene.

Conclusion

The Bluff Trail Extension is more than a hike—it’s a pilgrimage through one of the last wild coastal corridors on the Oregon shoreline. It demands respect, preparation, and humility. The cliffs do not care about your fitness level, your gear brand, or your Instagram followers. They respond only to caution, care, and presence.

By following the steps outlined in this guide, you are not just learning how to hike a trail—you are learning how to move through nature with intention. You are becoming part of a community that values silence over noise, stewardship over consumption, and connection over conquest.

When you return from your hike, don’t just post a photo. Share your story. Tell others about the moss-covered stones, the cry of the murrelet, the quiet strength of the cedars. Encourage others to prepare properly. Volunteer for trail maintenance. Leave no trace.

The Bluff Trail Extension will be there tomorrow. But only if we choose to protect it. Walk gently. Hike wisely. And carry the spirit of the trail with you long after your boots are clean.