#2 Recommended Hidden Spot

#2- The South Jetty

The Columbia River was, and to a certain extent still is, a savage piece of water where it connects with the Pacific Ocean. To help make the transition more peaceful the Army Corp of Engineers brought huge boulders to the coast on trains and dumped them into the ocean in a long line right out into the mouth of the Columbia River. The created a barrier where the majority of the oceans fury was, and is, spent crashing into these rocks instead of travelling up the Columbia River. You can still see the wooden pilings that were driven into the ground to support the elevated train tracks which brought the huge boulders to the jetty. This location is always amazing as the waves crash into, and sometimes over these rocks. The power of the Pacific Ocean is manifest more in this spot than any other that I have visited. On a calm day you can climb along the rocks and the waves crash beneath you, but this should only be taken by those in decent condition with good shoes. In my opinion, the best time to visit the South Jetty is during or directly after a large storm. It may be little windy and wet, but seeing these huge waves crash high over the rocks of the jetty is a sight to behold. There is an observation tower which overlooks the expanse of the jetty so you don't have to get up on the rocks to view this site. To get to the jetty follow the directions above for getting to the Columbia River Beach, but make the last left before you reach the river beach parking lot.

Jeremy's Insider Tips-

A light, or heavy jacket are always nice to have, especially during the off-season or during a storm. It is always very windy here, but not too cold during the summer. Climb on the rocks only if you are confident in your abilities and have good shoes. Bring a camera and binoculars if you have some. There is a public restroom located near the parking lot.