🌤 Weather at Ellmaker State Wayside by season
| Spring | Summer | Fall | Winter |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30–69 °F | 43–83 °F | 31–77 °F | 28–51 °F |
Each range runs from the coldest monthly average low to the warmest monthly average high in that season (1991-2020 climate normals), measured at Corvallis Water Bureau, 15 mi away, elevation 592 ft. Conditions at the park can differ from the station, especially where elevation differs — check a forecast before you go.
🏆 Coast Range Forest — Old-growth forest wayside on Highway 20 between Corvallis and Newport
Ellmaker State Wayside preserves a stand of old-growth Sitka spruce and western hemlock along Highway 20 in the Coast Range between Corvallis and Newport. The towering trees — some over 200 feet tall and 500+ years old — create a cathedral-like canopy over the short interpretive trail. This is one of the most accessible old-growth experiences along Oregon’s coastal highways.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Highway 20, Coast Range, OR |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Trees | 200ft Sitka spruce, 500+ years old |
Frequently Asked Questions
How big are the trees?
The largest Sitka spruce exceed 200 feet tall and 8 feet in diameter. These are among the last remnants of the ancient Coast Range forest that once covered all of western Oregon.
What is a nurse log?
When a large tree falls in the rainforest, it becomes a nursery for the next generation. Seeds germinate on the elevated, moss-covered surface — away from competing ground-level vegetation. After the log decomposes, a row of mature trees stands on stilted roots where the log once lay.
About Ellmaker Wayside
Ellmaker State Wayside preserves a small grove of old-growth forest along the Luckiamute River in the central Willamette Valley. The park is named for Ira Ellmaker, one of the first settlers in Polk County. The old-growth Douglas fir and grand fir trees here are remarkable — remnants of the vast forests that once covered the entire valley before agricultural clearing.
Things to Do
Picnicking beneath ancient trees, short nature walks, and enjoying the rare experience of old-growth forest in the otherwise agricultural Willamette Valley. The Luckiamute River offers quiet paddling and small-stream fishing.
Insider Tips
Coast Range forest: Ellmaker Wayside along Highway 20 features a stunning old-growth Sitka spruce and western red cedar grove. Pro tip: The short loop trail passes trees over 200 feet tall — look straight up for the full effect. Nurse logs: Fallen trees become “nurse logs” for new seedlings — you’ll see rows of young trees growing from decomposing logs. This is how Northwest rainforests regenerate.
Best Time to Visit
Year-round: Old-growth forest is beautiful in every season. Winter: Rain makes the moss-draped trees glow green. Spring: Wildflowers and birdsong. Fall: Chanterelle mushroom season (October-November).
Wildlife & Nature
Ellmaker State Wayside preserves a grove of old-growth timber along the highway corridor — protecting ancient trees that would otherwise have been cleared for road widening or development. Oregon’s old-growth forests — defined as stands 200+ years old with large trees, standing dead snags, and fallen logs — are among the most productive ecosystems on Earth. They store more carbon per acre than any other ecosystem, including tropical rainforests. The massive trees support unique canopy communities — epiphytic mosses, lichens, and ferns drape every branch. Marbled murrelets — endangered seabirds — nest high in old-growth trees, sometimes flying 50+ miles from the ocean to reach their nests. Red tree voles spend their entire lives in the canopy, never touching the ground.
Nearby Attractions
Valley of the Giants — a Bureau of Land Management Outstanding Natural Area — protects one of Oregon’s most impressive old-growth groves (not to be confused with California’s redwood parks). Marys Peak — the highest point in the Coast Range (4,097 feet) — offers panoramic views from the ocean to the Cascades. Corvallis — home of Oregon State University — has a vibrant college-town atmosphere. Alsea Falls offers a scenic waterfall in the Coast Range. Siuslaw National Forest provides extensive recreation opportunities.
Make it a road trip: Pair a visit with Yaquina Bay State Recreation Site (within about an hour’s drive) or Agate Beach State Recreation Site (within about an hour’s drive).
🌲 Visit Ellmaker State Wayside
500-year-old giants — cathedral old-growth on the drive to Newport.
🐾 Dogs & Pets at Ellmaker State Wayside
- Pets allowed? statewide rule
- Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas.
- Leash rule statewide rule
- Leash no longer than 6 feet required in developed park areas
- Beaches & swim areas statewide rule
- Pets are allowed on most ocean beaches under direct control; western snowy plover nesting areas restrict pets March 15 - Sept. 15; leash required on the beach at some parks (e.g. Cape Lookout)
- Cabins & lodging statewide rule
- Designated pet-friendly yurts and cabins at many parks (South Beach has 14 pet-friendly yurts, Tugman 8); maximum two dogs and/or cats; $10 per night pet fee
- Pet fees statewide rule
- $10 per night for pet-friendly yurts/cabins; no pet fee for day use or campsites
- Statewide exceptions statewide rule
- Pets prohibited at Dabney SRA, the Trail of Ten Falls at Silver Falls, and Shore Acres; off-leash areas at Stub Stewart, Willamette Mission, Elijah Bristow, Cottonwood Canyon and LaPine
Are dogs allowed at Ellmaker State Wayside?
Pets are welcome in Oregon state parks and on most ocean beaches but must be leashed except in designated off-leash areas. Individual parks can post stricter rules — check signage on arrival.
Rules verified July 2026 via stateparks.oregon.gov. More: Oregon state parks guide · Dog rules in all 50 states compared
Park Location
Plan your gear for Ellmaker State Wayside
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