Accessible Trail: Yes (compacted gravel)
Mileage: 0.12 miles one-way (0.25 miles round trip)
The Oregon Coast is known for it's charming seaside towns, great views, and pristine forests. Within these pristine forests are Heritage Trees: trees that tell a story about the unique history of the people, places and circumstances that define the Oregon forestland. One such tree is the Octopus Tree, the largest Sitka Spruce in Oregon.
The tree has been measured to have a circumference of 46 feet and has no central trunk. Instead, its limbs extend outward from the center of the tree before reaching skyward more than 100 feet. Native American lore maintains that the Octopus Tree's odd shape comes from its function as a ceremonial site. According to Tillamook tribal descendants, the tree’s branches were forced downward toward the horizontal when they were still flexible, extending 16 feet from the base of the tree. When the branches were allowed to resume their natural growth, they grew vertically once more reaching straight for the sun. A tree of worthy of such special care was especially venerated and was likely the site of many tribal rites and ceremonies.
Today the Octopus Tree is protected by the state as an Oregon Heritage Tree and can be seen by the public within the Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint. To view this venerated tree for yourself, find the compacted gravel trailhead at the Southeast corner of the parking area. The trail leads you slightly uphill through the tall spruces and sprawling ferns; some trees are even growing through the pathway.
After about a tenth of a mile, the Octopus Tree comes into view. This unique tree is truly a sight to behold. Its broad limbs spread out from its base, leaving you to wonder how it could possibly be made to grow that way. Once you're done admiring this awesome tree, continue on the trail a short bit and gaze upon another awe-inspiring sight: the Pacific Ocean and the Oregon Coast. If you're lucky, you may be able to spot a migrating whale, or some of the other marine mammals that make the Three Capes area their home. When you've had your fill of gazing in wonder at the Pacific and at the Octopus Tree, head back down the trail and enjoy the return walk through the Sitka Spruce trees.
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