Blumenthal Falls
BLUMENTHAL FALLS IN ARCH CAPE, OREGON
About Blumenthal Falls in Arch Cape, Oregon (in Ecola State Park)
Blumenthal Falls is a wonder among waterfalls in the Northwest. It’s one of the only falls that doesn’t require assistance from a boat to be seen dropping into the Pacific Ocean. Although the 45-foot falls doesn’t technically drop into the ocean outside of high tide, the beach setting is unique, easy to access, and a beautiful sight to see. For those reasons, the falls are a popular spot for photographers due to the abundance of wildlife and stunning scenery on display.
How The Falls Got Its Name
Ranger Dan Blumenthal was fatally shot while on duty at Oswald West State Park in 1999, for which the waterfalls were named after him. The falls were originally and commonly referred to as “Waterfall at Short Sand Beach” and “Smugglers Cove Falls.”
Below the falls, particularly on the left, are interesting whitehered rock formations – likely of the Sandstone family (but possibly Schist as well). At low tides the large boulders below the falls create many tide pools for viewing sea life, such as starfish, anemones, urchins, sculpins, and other marine creatures. Here, take a look!
How Far is the Waterfalls from Manzanita?
It’s approximately 4.1 miles (7 minutes) way from Manzanita. Take 101 N, and use the parking lot and take the Cape Falcon hike starting at the Cape Falcon Trailhead.
Reviews of the Blumenthal Falls at Short Sands Beach
This is what people are saying about Blumenthal Falls.
“Beautiful beach area. Surrounded by cliffs, trees and this small waterfall. A couple different trails will bring you to the beach from a designated parking area off the road. Trail goes underneath the 101 then down to the beach. Even the walk down is very scenic. I had to walk up a little ways through the tide-pool area to find some nice starfish. The area has been in a drought situation for a few months so the falls did not have much water running down it when I visited.”
“I love this place! Perfect for a family day at the beach with a great view of the ocean and a waterfalls. Tons of cool sea creatures on the rocks around the waterfall!”