One of N. Oregon Coast's Most Popular Accesses Hit by Sewage Leak: Cannon Beach's Haystack Rock

Published 10/27/25 at 8:35 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Cannon Beach, Oregon) – Something yucky this way comes, at least in one Oregon coast town. A sewage overflow is causing Cannon Beach officials to ask that you stay away from the access most people use to get to Haystack Rock.

City officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid the Gower Street beach access following a sewage overflow that occurred Monday morning. Although cleanup efforts have been completed, public health risks remain at the site.

The access is also known as Access #15 and the Ecola Street Ramp. Cannon Beach's Access #15 / Midtown / Gower Access: Gateway to Oregon Coast's Famed Haystack Rock

The incident took place on October 27, 2025, at approximately 10:37 a.m., originating from the Pacific Pump Station at 1200 Pacific Street. The overflow discharged through the storm and sewer outfall at the same location, releasing an estimated 80,000 gallons of sewage.

“City crews have completed clean up of the impacted area, however, signage remains in place asking the public to not play in the water in that direct area,” officials said. “Signs will remain in place until bacteria test results come back clear which takes about 24 hours.”

According to city staff, the overflow was triggered by a blockage in the manhole caused by heavy rainfall and a buildup of toilet paper around a flow sensor. This obstruction led to a diversion in the system and the subsequent release.

In response, city crews posted warning signs and began removing contaminants from the affected beach area. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has been notified and issued an order under ORS#2025-2723. Officials continue to monitor the popular north Oregon coast site.

Gower St. access (all photos Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

Although it's extremely popular and with the closest parking, there are other ways to get to Haystack Rock, with smaller accesses surrounding it. You can still park there, but walk about a block south and you'll run into other, unnamed accesses. Walking north will only force you to cross the creek.

However, stay out of the ocean water within a few hundred feet of that access until the notice is over. Keep an eye on the City of Cannon Beach's FB page.

See all Cannon Beach accesses.

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