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Pets allowed
Allowed with Restrictions
Elevation Gain
200.00 ft (60.96 m)
Trail type
Loop
Distance
0.80 mi (1.29 km)
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The trail to Thunder Rock Cove in Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor is a short 0.8 miles with little elevation change, making it a great stroll along the Oregon coastal cliffs. From the trail there are great views to the north and south as well as down to Secret Beach, which is accessed via a spur from the trail to Thunder Rock Cove. But the main attraction is Thunder Rock Cove, a small cove sheltered by sheer cliffs complete with a natural arch and a very noisy sea cave.

When a large wave enters the cove, it wraps around into a sea cave set into the cliff. Large amounts of water and surrounding air are forced into the back of the cave, creating a lot of pressure. When the wave hits the back and when forces on the air and water cannot push any further, the wave and air are expelled backwards and create a thundering sound that reverberates through the rock on occasion. On a calm day this sound is still audible with the occasional wave, but it is much more pronounced during large swells and storms.

Logistics + Planning

Preferable season(s)

Winter
Spring
Summer
Fall

Congestion

Low

Parking Pass

Not Required

Pros

Thundering cove. Great views.

Cons

None.

Trailhead Elevation

220.00 ft (67.06 m)

Features

Whale watching
Wildlife
Bird watching
Big vistas
Geologically significant

Typically multi-day

No

Location

Nearby Adventures

Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor
Samuel H. Boardman State Scenic Corridor

Nearby Lodging + Camping

Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon
Southern Oregon Coast + Rogue River, Oregon

Comments

09/25/2018
I love the views here. Some of the best in the park!
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A profound concept originally envisioned by governor Oswald West, in 1967 the Oregon legislature ultimately realized his vision of making the entire Oregon Coast forever open to the public in a piece of landmark legislation titled the Oregon Beach Bill, officially making all 363 miles public land. "The People's Coast" is truly a one-of-a-kind coastline, a unique blend of mountains and rocky stacks, towering old growth forests, marine sanctuaries, tide pools and kelp forests, charming towns, historic fishing communities, world-class golfing, breweries, and simply jaw-dropping scenic beaches. We encourage you to plan your next trip at visittheoregoncoast.com or by calling (541) 574-2679.

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