This Charming Town In Oregon Marks The Westernmost Incorporated Town In The Contiguous U.S.
By Catherine Armstrong|Published August 05, 2018
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Catherine Armstrong
Author
Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
The rugged beauty of Oregon’s coast is just absolutely stunning. One of the most incredible things about this place is the fact that you can stand on cliffs overlooking the ocean and feel as though you’re on the edge of the world. While it’s not actually the edge of the world, the Oregon Coast is home to the westernmost incorporated place in the contiguous U.S. Check out this charming town that claims that distinction, which also features a pretty state park, beautiful beaches, and local shops and restaurants that you’ll want to try.
Port Orford is a beautiful little town of just 1,200 or so residents. Located in the southern portion of the Oregon Coast, it's the westernmost incorporated place in the lower 48 states.
Fishing is the main industry in this bustling little town, where you'll find everything from fishermen on large vessels to longline fishermen making their living here.
See one of the 37-foot rescue boats that they used and hear some of the rescue stories at this barracks-turned-museum. It's open Wednesday through Monday from 10 am. to 3:30 p.m.
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Drive north to stop in and tour the Cape Blanco Lighthouse, which was constructed in 1870.
Head south from Port Orford to find Humbug Mountain State Park to see the spot where one of the coast's tallest mountains meets the ocean. This park has a beautiful campground, forested hiking trails, and gorgeous beaches.