Peter Iredale Shipwreck
Explore the rusted skeleton of the Peter Iredale, a 1906 shipwreck on Oregon's coast, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Maximizes wreck visibility
Peter Iredale Shipwreck
Best Time
Maximizes wreck visibility
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the rusted skeleton of the Peter Iredale, a 1906 shipwreck on Oregon's coast, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
"The wreckage of the ship is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. It’s a unique sight."
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The wreck is best viewed at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly for the most complete experience.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The walk involves sand dunes and potentially uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.7 · 4,096 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rusted Skeleton
Clatsop Spit
Walk among the skeletal remains of a 1906 shipwreck, a hauntingly beautiful historical artifact.
Shipwreck Beach Exploration
Fort Stevens State Park
Explore the sandy shores surrounding the wreck, keeping an eye out for historical remnants and marine life.
Sunset Views
Clatsop Spit
Witness a breathtaking sunset over the Pacific Ocean, with the shipwreck as a dramatic silhouette.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Low Tide is Your Friend
Fort Stevens State Park Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The wreck is best viewed at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly for the most complete experience.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The walk involves sand dunes and potentially uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Prepare for Wind :wind_face:
Oregon coast weather can be unpredictable and windy. Dress in layers and bring wind protection.
Respect the Site 🙏
This is a historical landmark. Do not disturb or remove any parts of the shipwreck.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check Tide Charts First! :chart_with_upwards_trend:
The wreck is best viewed at low tide. Plan your visit accordingly for the most complete experience.
Wear Sturdy Shoes :athletic_shoe:
The walk involves sand dunes and potentially uneven terrain. Comfortable footwear is a must.
Prepare for Wind :wind_face:
Oregon coast weather can be unpredictable and windy. Dress in layers and bring wind protection.
Respect the Site 🙏
This is a historical landmark. Do not disturb or remove any parts of the shipwreck.
Capture the History :camera_with_flash:
The shipwreck offers unique photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Peter Iredale shipwreck a unique and historically significant sight, offering stunning photographic opportunities, especially at sunset. While the walk can be challenging due to sand dunes, the free access and ample parking make it an easily accessible attraction. Some visitors express concern about vehicles on the beach and their impact on the environment and wildlife.
"The wreckage of the ship is definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area. It’s a unique sight, and we were pleased to find the beach in such clean condition. On the day we went, it was quite windy, so we didn’t spend much time lingering, just taking in the wreckage. There’s ample parking available, and accessing the beach involves a relatively easy walk, but be mindful that it can be a steep trek down a sand dune, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues. There’s also no fee to park or access the beach."
Justin Brummage
"Watched the sunset this evening at Peter Iredale Shipwreck. Wow. Truly incredible. The wreck is alongside this sunset was breathtaking to see. There are some interesting Youtube videos discussing the history of the wreck which I'd recommend watching before you visit. Lovely beach, great history and prefect evening stroll if you catch a good sunset. I would highly recommend!"
K Courtney
"This is just a short walk from the parking lot! There is a bathroom available for use in the parking lot as well. Very cool old bones of a ship that was washed ashore, definitely worth checking out! Plan extra time the entire park is beautiful and has a ton of bike paths to explore on!"
Amber W
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Peter Iredale Shipwreck is located within Fort Stevens State Park in Warrenton, Oregon. You can drive directly to the park and follow signs for the shipwreck beach access. There is ample parking available, and the walk to the wreck is relatively short, though it involves navigating sand dunes.
There is no fee to park or access the beach where the Peter Iredale shipwreck is located.
While vehicles are allowed on some parts of the beach at Fort Stevens State Park, it's generally recommended to park and walk to the shipwreck to avoid disturbing wildlife and the historical site.
Follow the signs for the shipwreck beach access. The wreck is a prominent feature on the sand and is usually visible from a distance.
The walk to the shipwreck involves sand dunes, which can be steep and challenging for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to check conditions and consider your personal limitations.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to visit the Peter Iredale Shipwreck. It is located within Fort Stevens State Park, and access to the beach and the wreck is free.
Fort Stevens State Park is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, it's always a good idea to check the official Oregon State Parks website for any specific closures or updates.
The best time to visit is during low tide, as this exposes more of the shipwreck. Checking local tide charts before your visit is highly recommended.
You can walk around and on parts of the shipwreck, but exercise caution as the metal is rusted and the structure is old. Do not attempt to climb on unstable sections.
The main restriction is to respect the historical site and not remove any artifacts. Be mindful of the environment and wildlife.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photographing the shipwreck. Weekday mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
Experiment with different perspectives! Shots from the beach looking towards the wreck, close-ups of the rusted metal, and wide shots incorporating the ocean and sky are all popular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the shipwreck and its surroundings. A telephoto lens can be useful for details. Consider a tripod for low-light conditions.
Drone usage may be restricted within state parks. Always check the specific regulations for Fort Stevens State Park before flying.
Be mindful of the weather, especially wind and sand, which can affect your gear. Also, be aware of the tide to ensure you have access to the best vantage points.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can explore the shipwreck itself, walk along the beach, enjoy the ocean views, and learn about its history. It's a great spot for photography and a peaceful stroll.
Most visitors spend 1-2 hours exploring the shipwreck and the surrounding beach. This can vary depending on how much time you spend taking photos or enjoying the scenery.
Yes, pets are allowed on the beach at Fort Stevens State Park, but they must be kept on a leash and you should always clean up after them.
The Peter Iredale ran aground on October 25, 1906, due to fog and strong currents. It was a four-masted steel barque en route to the Columbia River. You can find historical markers and often online resources to learn more. +1
Fort Stevens State Park offers various amenities, including restrooms and picnic areas. The nearby town of Warrenton and Astoria have more dining and shopping options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit