PACIFIC CITY, Oregon – A sink hole measuring 20-feet wide and 15-feet deep was discovered at Cape Kiwanda State Natural Area Sunday in the lower northwest corner of the dune.
Oregon Park and Recreation Department staff were alerted to the presence of the sink hole Sunday morning and cordoned off the area for safety. We ask that visitors respect this barrier and all park safety barriers. Also, please keep pets on leashes and children away from the edges.
“The Cape is a dynamic environment; please be aware of your surroundings and stay clear of any dangerous areas, including this one,” said Park Manager Jason Elkins, “Obviously, people are curious and may want to see it for themselves, but we ask that you respect the barriers that are in place and observe from a distance.”
Cape Kiwanda is a rarity for the Oregon Coast: a sandstone outcropping. Sandstone is naturally much weaker and more prone to sudden changes compared with harder rocks like basalt. While any natural area carries some risk, enjoying Cape Kiwanda safely requires visitors to pay special attention.
Even though the spot is marked with barriers, this hole could change at any moment, and others could appear. If you see something that concerns you, leave the area and report it to Cape Lookout State Park staff at 503-842-4981. In an emergency, call 911.
The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is looking into possible causes of the sink hole, and we are continuing to monitor the situation. We will share additional details as they become available.
