THE ICON
Haystack Rock. You might see a beer-bellied man lying on his back. You may see Snoopy lying on the roof of his shed. Or maybe all you will see is a simple haystack. Whatever your perspective, Haystack Rock is impossible to miss as it proudly stands 235 feet tall just off the coast of Cannon Beach, Oregon.
ORIGINS
Haystack Rock rose from volcanic activity on the state's eastern side thousands of years ago when massive lava flows traveled along the Columbia River. As the lava came into contact with the Pacific, it hardened into basalt. The basalt built up in height and mass and was eventually pushed to the surface by shifting plates. The famous formation we know today is what erosion has left of the great Oregon Coastal Basalt Plain. Also left over are the smaller basalt formations scattered around Haystack. These are known as "The Needles of Cannon Beach".
RISE TO FAME
Haystack Rock is not the only basalt formation on the Oregon coast, nor is it the largest. So why did it become an icon?
Answer: Ease of access. Haystack Rock is famous because of how easily it can be reached. The rock is only a few miles west of the famous Highway 101. Tourists can walk up to the rock directly from the beach. Tide pools circle the base of Haystack and are easily explored at low tide. There is also a little-known cave-like alcove on the south side, which is revealed and can be explored at low tide.
Due to its convenient location, Haystack has been featured in several films, including The Goonies and Kindergarten Cop. Pop culture's access to the rock has only furthered its popularity.
Finally, the central Oregon coast is one of the most scenic areas in the world. Blooming with lush green foliage and rolling with golden hills of grass and sand, people come for miles to experience the views in person. National Geographic ranks Haystack Rock in the top 100 most beautiful places on the Earth.
WILDLIFE
Haystack Rock is a protected marine garden. It offers refuge to starfish, crabs, anemones, and dozens more species of aquatic life. In the clefts of the rock, tufted puffins, gulls, and cormorants make their nests. The occasional bald eagle can also be spotted among its crags.
VISITOR INFORMATION
The ideal season to visit Haystack Rock begins in early spring and lasts through the summer. As you plan your visit, be aware that Cannon Beach does not offer many activities besides sightseeing, window shopping, dining, and beach excursions. Though your itinerary will likely encompass more than Cannon Beach, here are a few popular spots for soaking up views of Haystack as much as possible:
LODGING
Hallmark Resort and Spa
Surfsand Resort
Schooners Cove Inn
DINING
Wayfarer
Moe's