The entire Oregon coast is beautiful, but there’s something especially dreamy about the southern end – where the landscape becomes more rugged with steep cliffs, sea stacks, and forested headlands. A perfect example of this is Samuel H. Boardman Scenic Corridor. This linear park stretches for twelve miles near Brookings, in-between Highway 101 and the Pacific Ocean, with several places to pull-off and walk down to get breathtaking views.
Photo by Cary Bass-Deschenes on Flickr
Along the road, several lookouts are marked by signs and have pull-off areas where you can park for free and walk down. Some of the key spots include Arch Rock (near the north end of the corridor) and Natural Bridges, pictured below.
Photo by Cary Bass-Deschenes on Flickr
Many of the overlooks have trails that lead down to small, sandy beaches. The Pacific Coastal Trail also winds throughout the park, weaving through tall Sitka Spruce forest. There’s both long and short segments you can follow, depending on how far you feel like going.
Photo by Pete Lamotte on Flickr
The opportunities for photography here are endless. We recommend driving through this park in the afternoon, just before sunset, and watch as the sky becomes splashed with warm, radiant colors over the ocean.
Taken by John Williams
Entry and parking in the area are both free, and there are no major facilities apart from some picnic areas. For more information and directions, check out the Oregon State Parks website here.
Have you been to this scenic state park on the coast before? We’d love to hear about your experience below.