Haystack Rock
Geographical Overview
Haystack Rock is a prominent geological formation located in Cannon Beach, Oregon, United States. It is one of the most recognizable landmarks along the Oregon Coast, and is a popular tourist destination. The rock is a 235-foot (72-meter) sea stack, a type of geological formation consisting of a steep and often vertical column or columns of rock in the sea near a coast, formed by wave erosion.
Geological Formation
Haystack Rock is a monolith, a geological feature consisting of a single massive stone or rock. It was formed by lava flows emanating from the Blue Mountains and Columbia Basin between 15 and 16 million years ago. The lava flows created many of the unique geological formations that are seen along the Oregon Coast today, including Haystack Rock.
Marine Life
Haystack Rock is home to a diverse array of marine life. The rock and the area surrounding it are part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge, which provides a habitat for a variety of bird species, including the Tufted Puffin, and a Marine Garden, which harbors a variety of intertidal animals. At low tide, the area around the rock reveals a rich intertidal zone where visitors can observe starfish, sea anemones, crabs, and other marine life.
Bird Habitat
Haystack Rock is a nesting site for many bird species, including the Tufted Puffin, which nests on Haystack Rock between April and July. The rock is also home to other bird species such as the Western Gull, Pelagic Cormorant, and Pigeon Guillemot. The area is protected to ensure the safety and conservation of these bird species.
Tourism
Haystack Rock is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The rock is accessible by foot at low tide, allowing visitors to explore the intertidal zone and observe the marine life. The City of Cannon Beach has implemented regulations to protect the rock and its surrounding area, and visitors are urged to respect these rules to ensure the preservation of this unique geological feature and its diverse wildlife.
Conservation
The area surrounding Haystack Rock is protected as part of the Oregon Islands National Wildlife Refuge and the Haystack Rock Marine Garden. These protections ensure the conservation of the rock's unique geological features and the diverse array of wildlife that it supports. Visitors are urged to respect these protections and to avoid disturbing the wildlife or damaging the rock.