Cascade Head

Cascade Head is a prominent Oregon Coast headland and protected landscape known for its unusual geology, rich habitats, and long history of scientific research and conservation. An uplifted extinct volcano, it includes basalt cliffs, coastal prairie, rainforest, the Salmon River estuary, a sandy spit, and offshore marine waters, supporting rare species such as Cascade Head catchfly and the threatened Oregon silverspot butterfly. Research began with the establishment of the Cascade Head Experimental Forest in 1934 and has continued across forestry, climate, and estuary restoration. Conservation campaigns in the 1960s helped secure lasting protection, culminating in scenic research area status and recognition as part of UNESCO’s biosphere reserve network.

Oregon · United States