H. B. Van Duzer Forest State Scenic Corridor

The H. B. Van Duzer Forest State Scenic Corridor is a protected forest strip along Route 18 stretching through the densely forested Northern Oregon Coast Range. The roughly 12-mile section links Polk County to Lincoln City while passing through stands of old-growth Douglas fir alongside the Salmon River.

The corridor takes its name from Henry B. Van Duzer, who served as the first chairman of the Oregon State Parks Commission starting in 1929. His leadership in establishing the state parks system directly influenced the protection of this forest landscape.

Visitors come to experience the Northern Oregon Coast Range landscape as it naturally exists, where old-growth forests and the river shape how people connect with the surroundings.

Several rest stops scattered along the corridor allow travelers to watch Roosevelt elk, take photographs, and access walking paths without leaving the main route. These pullouts make it easy to pause your drive and explore the surroundings at a relaxed pace.

A swimming area beneath old-growth trees lies hidden roughly one mile east of the main entrance, reachable only by following a walking trail. This quiet bathing spot often goes unnoticed even though it offers a rare chance to cool off within the forest itself.

Location: Oregon

GPS coordinates: 45.04430,-123.80300

Latest update: December 11, 2025 18:07