Cape Horn Lookout

Just about every tourist stops at this pull-out clinging to the sheer cliffs of Cape Horn. From here, you can see far up the river to Beacon Rock and beyond.

A smaller rock closer to Cape Horn was noted by Clark: “passed a rock near the middle of the river, about 100 feet high and 80 feet Diamuter.” On his maps, Clark labeled the rock “Phoca” and “Seal rock”. Sea lions still roost on its lower ledges, and from certain angles, the rock itself looks similar to a sea lion. Clark did not make clear which reason he named the rock.

There’s not a lot of room for parking and pedestrians along the highway, so consider stopping at one of the nearby trailheads. A variety of hikes—short and long—provide a more peaceful way to enjoy the views and waterfalls of Cape Horn. West of the highway viewpoint is Lower Cape Horn Trailhead at 45.5729, -122.2 with access also to Cape Horn Trail which goes up (south) from the highway.

For for, visit at our educational website Discovering Lewis and Clark: Beacon Rock | Seal Rock.