On the northwestern tip of Oregon you will find Warrenton on a finger of land between the beautiful Pacific Ocean and the Columbia River. A small town of approximately 4,000 people, Warrenton has a several interesting attractions.

On the beach lies the Peter Iredale, a sailboat that shipwrecked over 100 years ago. Since it was possible to pull the boat out of the sand, it has remained where it became stuck. The ocean is slowly claiming the remains of the vessel. However, at low tide you can still walk up to the boat.

Battery Russell, a part of Fort Stevens was built and activated in 1904. It remained in use until the end of World War II. Battery Russell has the distinction of being one of the few places on the mainland of the United States to have been fired upon by the Japanese during World War II. There is no record of anyone being killed at Battery Russell, but there are many reports of ghost sightings there. There are even photographs that claim to show moving orbs and ectoplasmic masses. So, if you would like to see a scary ghost or two, check out Battery Russell.

For those who crave excitement, Warren offers two activities sure to get your heart pounding. How about trying paragliding? On Sunset Beach you can get training and fly either single or duo up to 3,000 feet above the beach and the ocean. For something a little less thrilling, you can take a Zip Line Tour. High Life Adventures provides a 2 ½ hour tour over thirty acres of breath taking scenery. Once you have on your safety gear, a harness, helmet, lanyard, and a trolley, you are hooked to a line. As you soar between 15′ – 60′ above seasoned timber, ponds, and a private lake, you will experience the one of the closest things to flying. Children under 15 years of age must be accompanied by a parent.

If you enjoy playing gold, and can qualify, you can sign up to participate in the Annual Oregon Coast Invitational Amateur Match Play Tournament. You can enjoy yourself and contribute to a good cause at the same time. The proceeds from the tournament, now in its 102 year, go to fund a scholarship for local high school graduates to further their education. This year’s tournament began on July 21st and will end on July 28th. Some divisions fill up rapidly so you need up register well ahead of time.

Warrenton is an delightful place to visit. Being only about an hour’s drive from Portland, Portlanders can easily slip over for a day, or an afternoon.
Article written by Mary Boyer

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