Hiking The Hobbit Trail, Devil’s Churn, Spouting Horn, and Thor’s Well on the Oregon Coast

Looking for one of the most scenic and magical hikes on the Oregon Coast? Whether you’re into mossy forests, rugged sea cliffs, or thunderous ocean blowholes, this adventure delivers it all. From the fairytale-like Hobbit Trail in Florence, Oregon to the jaw-dropping geological power of Devil’s Churn, Spouting Horn, and Thor’s Well, this coastal route offers some of the most unforgettable views and easy day hikes in the Pacific Northwest.

In this post, we’ll take you step-by-step through these iconic stops along Highway 101, offering tips for parking, trail access, best tide times, and photography advice. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to explore some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders the Oregon Coast has to offer.

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Hiking the Hobbit Trail to Hobbit Beach

Located just 12 miles north of Florence on Highway 101, The Hobbit Trail is a short, enchanting walk through a coastal forest straight out of a Tolkien novel. It’s an easy 0.5-mile trail to Hobbit Beach, but don’t let the short distance fool you—this trail is packed with magic.

The moss-draped trees and twisting limbs look like something out of The Lord of the Rings. As you walk, you pass under a canopy of rhododendrons and Sitka spruce that feel like a tunnel built for hobbits, gnomes, or curious adventurers like us.

Hobbit Trail Trailhead Location

The trailhead is easy to miss. Look for a roadside pullout on the west side of Highway 101, just north of the Heceta Head Lighthouse State Scenic Viewpoint. It’s about 0.5 miles from the lighthouse, and if you’re not paying attention, you might drive right past it.

Once parked, carefully cross the highway to reach the trail. Almost immediately, you’ll hit a junction—go right to stay on the Hobbit Trail to the beach, or left if you want to continue on a longer hike toward Heceta Head Lighthouse.

Hobbit Beach

The trail ends at Hobbit Beach, a quiet, scenic stretch of sand perfect for relaxing or beachcombing. This spot is truly one of Oregon’s hidden gems. While I wish the hike was longer, it’s the kind of place you’ll want to linger, take photos, and just breathe it all in.

Devil’s Churn Hike via Cove Beach Trail

After our walk along the Hobbit Trail, we decided to head north to check out Devil’s Churn, a narrow inlet where waves crash and churn dramatically inside volcanic rock.

While the Devil’s Churn Day Use Area was still closed due to the pandemic, we lucked out and found an alternative trail nearby. Just past the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, we found the Cove Beach Trailhead and took a paved trail that surprisingly led straight to Devil’s Churn.

The waves were wild, the scenery was stunning, and we spent a good while just watching the ocean flex its power. It’s an easy, family-friendly hike, and well worth the stop.

Spouting Horn and Thor’s Well at Cook’s Chasm

Continuing south along Highway 101 toward Florence, we timed our next stop at Cook’s Chasm perfectly—right at high tide.

From the Cook’s Chasm Scenic Viewpoint, you can hop on the Captain Cook Trail, a 0.75-mile round-trip hike that gives you front-row views of:

• Cook’s Chasm
• Spouting Horn
• Thor’s Well

Spouting Horn

This ocean-powered geyser shoots seawater high into the air through a collapsed sea cave, sometimes reaching heights of 40 feet or more. It’s a natural spectacle, driven by incoming waves and compressed air within the rocks. The spray, sound, and drama of Spouting Horn are unforgettable.

Thor’s Well

Known as the “Gate to Hell,” Thor’s Well is a gaping hole in the volcanic rock that appears to drain the ocean before refilling with a powerful surge. It’s about 20 feet deep, and during high tide, waves force water to explode upward and cascade back down into the well.

I had seen pictures of Thor’s Well for years and couldn’t wait to visit. Finally seeing it in person—and at high tide, no less—was incredible. Just be cautious near the edge. The rocks are slippery, and the waves can be unpredictable.

Safety Tips for Coastal Hikes

Exploring Oregon’s rugged coastline is unforgettable, but it comes with risks. Here are a few reminders:

• Watch for sneaker waves
• Wear sturdy shoes—the rocks can be slick
• Never turn your back on the ocean
• Stay back from undercut cliffs or chasm edges

Other Things to Do Near Florence, Oregon

If you’re visiting the area, here are a few more top sights along the Central Oregon Coast:

• Cape Perpetua Scenic Area – Offers incredible overlooks, hikes, and interpretive trails
• Heceta Head Lighthouse – One of the most photographed lighthouses on the West Coast
• Sea Lion Caves – A natural cave system filled with wild sea lions

Final Thoughts

The Oregon Coast never disappoints, and this trip reminded me just how much beauty is packed into every curve of Highway 101. Whether you’re hiking the Hobbit Trail to Hobbit Beach, staring into the power of Thor’s Well, or catching the geyser-like Spouting Horn, each stop is an experience you won’t forget.

Have you visited any of these spots? I’d love to hear about your favorite Oregon Coast hikes or magical moments along the way. Drop a comment below or reach out with questions. Thanks for reading—and happy trails!

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