Haystake Hill State Park
The State Park Within Cannon Beach
An Undeveloped Park
Above: The view from Haystack Hill State Park in Cannon Beach.
Located new Cannon Beach Bible Church, Haystack Hill State Park is a relatively unknown Oregon State Park that provides a place to get away from the crowds and enjoy a quiet place with spectacular views. This park is not maintained, but the hiking trails are relatively easy to follow. There is a small, raising viewing platform that, although not located at the highest point, is located where you'll get the best view of Haystack Rock (see photo above). A small bench on the platform provides a place to sit and relax.
There are also many places throughout the park where you can sit and enjoy the forest. The eastern side of the park is exposed to the traffic noise from highway 101, but the western side is quieter, at times with just the sound of the surf. If you keep your eyes open, you may be able to spot local wildlife, such as elk.
Entering The Park From The North
To enter the park from the north, go to the southern end of S. Spruce street, then continue walking on a trail that heads south from the end of the road. You'll be in the park.
There are no convenient places to park on S. Spruce street. The street is unpaved and narrow. Do not park at the southern end of Spruce, as there is a good chance you'll be on parking on private property. You are welcome to park in our church parking lot on Hills Lane. From there it is a short walk (about two blocks south on Spruce) to the park.
When you get to the top of the hill (the top of a cliff) there will be views of the ocean and Haystack Rock. Look for the viewing platform (photo below) that elevates you above the bushes for a better view.
The viewing platform is very close to the southern end of the trail. So, if you just want to see the views, entering the park from the south is the best option.
Entering The Park From The South
The park can be entered from Haystack Lane. To do this, you will be crossing private property. Please be respectful of the property owners in how you park. Do not leave behind trash. And pick up and poop your dog leaves behind.
The three pictures below may help you find the trail on the south side of the park.
The left photo is looking north on Hemlock Street. The street going off to the right is Haystack Lane. The trail head is about 2/3 of the way up Haystack Lane on the right.
The middle picture shows the trail head as it was January 1st, 2015. Go up this trail about 30 yards; turn left onto a trail going up a small hill; and that will bring you to the viewing platform.
The right-hand picture above shows the viewing platform.
