Neahkahnie Mountain

Neahkahnie Mountain is a 1,683 foot (513 m) summit in the Oregon Coast Range, rising within Oswald West State Park. From the top, it commands views across Manzanita and Nehalem Bay, surrounded by thick forests and coastal landscapes stretching in every direction.

Spanish sailors reportedly visited the mountain in the late 1500s and allegedly buried treasure beneath a deceased crew member on its slopes. This tale attracted treasure hunters and diggers for many generations afterward.

The mountain's name comes from the Tillamook language and holds spiritual significance for the Native American peoples of this region. Visitors walking here can sense this connection to the land, especially when looking out across the coastline from higher elevations.

Two hiking routes lead to the top: a shorter path covering about 3 miles round trip with 900 feet elevation gain or a longer trail of about 5 miles gaining 1,000 feet. The walk passes through forests and can be muddy, so sturdy hiking boots are recommended.

In the 1870s, carved stones and beeswax pieces were discovered on the nearby beach, suggesting early Spanish presence in the area. These findings raise questions about the exact timeline of early European exploration at this location.