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Haystack Rock Awareness Project
Haystack Rock Awareness Project
Cannon Beach
view websiteHaystack Rock
Cannon Beach, OR 97110
503-325-7275
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-K
School-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Historical Landmark
Park
Haystack Rock Awareness Project Description
Haystack Rock, located just off the shore of Cannon Beach, is a 235-foot rock that is home to many different kinds of invertebrate marine life and nesting seabirds. Made of hardened lava from a volcano that erupted millions of years ago, the rock was designated a Wildlife Refuge in 1976. Visit during low tide in the summer months to see tidepools around the rock alive with invertebrates and the rock itself crowded with seabirds. The Haystack Rock Awareness Project sets up binoculars and microscopes at low tide on the beach and has several volunteers to teach visitors about tidepool life and the rock's flora and fauna.
Kid Tips
School-Age Kids: The microscopes provide a fascinating glimpse into the microcosm; a close look at the nesting birds will mesmerize.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Older kids will especially like the chance to spy the black and white big-beaked puffins that flock to the rock.
Planning Notes
- Tide dependent. Microscopes and volunteers are at Haystack Rock only during low tide, which varies daily.
- Bring your own binoculars. Volunteers will have some on hand, but bring your own if you don't want to wait for your turn.
Just the Facts
Hours: Daily, at low tide
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
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