16 2026 OFFICIAL VISITORS GUIDE EXPLORE OREGON’S ONLY BIOSPHERE REGION Lincoln City is home to Oregon’s only UNESCO Biosphere Region, the Cascade Head Biosphere. This 100,000-acre wonderland stretches from rugged coastline to old-growth forests and is home to more than 350 species of wildlife, including bald eagles, elk, coho salmon and the rare Oregon silverspot butterfly. Hike forested trails that open onto sweeping ocean views, explore tide pools alive with sea stars and anemones or watch for migrating gray whales offshore. The Lower Cascade Head Trail, starting at Knight Park, is a favorite year-round hike offering a mix of dense forest and coastal prairie. The biosphere is also a living classroom, with programs and guided outings that highlight its unique ecology and conservation efforts. From naturalist-led hikes to kayak tours in the Salmon River Estuary, you’ll find experiential opportunities to connect more deeply with this rare and beautiful ecosystem. Beaches and Outdoors DID YOU KNOW? The Cascade Head Biosphere Region is home to four federally listed endangered species: the spotted owl, marbled murrelet, coho salmon and Oregon silverspot butterfly. Photo top left Alex Jordan, right Cody Cha, bottom Philip Burnett
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