What can you do in Astoria Oregon during the Winter?
7016621789 • November 13, 2024

Exploring Winter Activities in Astoria, Oregon: Your Guide to Fun and Adventure

Winter in Astoria, Oregon, offers a unique blend of coastal charm, historic sites, and outdoor activities. While this picturesque city is known for its rainy days, the weather only enhances the cozy, rugged beauty of the Oregon coast. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly activities, historical adventures, or relaxing indoor escapes, Astoria has something for everyone. Here’s a guide to make the most of your winter getaway in this enchanting coastal town.

1. Visit the Astoria Column

The Astoria Column is one of the town's most iconic landmarks. Standing 125 feet tall, this historic column features intricate murals that tell the story of Oregon’s early settlers. Climbing the spiral staircase rewards visitors with breathtaking views of the Columbia River, Young’s Bay, and the Pacific Ocean. Even in winter, the view from the top is a must-see. Don’t forget to bring a small wooden glider from the gift shop to launch from the top! For more information, visit the official Astoria Column website.

2. Explore Fort Clatsop National Memorial

Winter is an excellent time to explore the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park at Fort Clatsop, where the famed explorers spent the winter of 1805-1806. The park includes a replica of the original fort and several hiking trails, such as the Netul River Trail, which are open year-round. During winter, the park hosts events like the Salt Makers Return and Living History programs. Learn more on the National Park Service website.

3. Discover the Columbia River Maritime Museum

A perfect indoor escape for a chilly winter day, the Columbia River Maritime Museum showcases Astoria’s maritime heritage. With interactive exhibits covering everything from the U.S. Coast Guard to shipwrecks along the Columbia River Bar, this museum is ideal for visitors of all ages. Don’t miss the 3D theater and displays on fishing, lighthouse keeping, and the famous bar pilots who guide ships into the river. Visit the museum’s website for ticket prices and event information.

4. Take a Winter Riverfront Walk

Bundle up and take a scenic walk along the Astoria Riverwalk. This 6.4-mile trail follows the path of the historic Astoria and Columbia River Railroad and offers stunning views of the Columbia River and nearby Washington coast. On your walk, you’ll pass charming shops, restaurants, and public art installations. Be sure to stop at the Buoy Beer Company to warm up with a locally brewed pint and a bowl of clam chowder. Find more on the Astoria Riverwalk and other trails.

5. Enjoy Astoria’s Unique Dining and Breweries

Astoria is known for its food and beverage scene, and winter is the perfect time to sample it. Warm up with a coffee at Astoria Coffeehouse & Bistro, savor locally sourced seafood at Bowpicker Fish & Chips, or enjoy a brew at Fort George Brewery. Many local establishments create seasonal specials, so keep an eye out for winter-inspired menus. For a complete list of dining options, check out Visit Astoria’s restaurant guide.

6. Explore the Enigmatic Flavel House Museum

Astoria is steeped in history, and the Flavel House Museum offers a glimpse into the past with its stunning Victorian architecture and period-accurate interiors. This 1885 mansion, once home to Captain George Flavel, is a well-preserved example of Queen Anne-style architecture. During winter, the house is decorated for the holidays, enhancing its old-world charm. Plan your visit by checking the Clatsop County Historical Society website.

7. Storm Watching at the Beach

The Oregon coast is famous for its dramatic winter storms, and storm-watching is a beloved activity. Nearby beaches, like Cannon Beach and Seaside, offer stunning views of crashing waves and high surf during winter. You can observe from a safe distance at places like Ecola State Park and Cape Disappointment State Park. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast and be mindful of safety guidelines. Read more about winter storm watching at the Oregon State Parks website.

8. Holiday Events in Astoria

Winter in Astoria is also a season of festive cheer, with holiday events running throughout December. The Astoria Holiday Market is a great place to pick up local crafts, gourmet treats, and holiday decorations. Check out Astoria Downtown Events for the latest event calendar and holiday activities.

9. Birdwatching and Wildlife Observation

Astoria’s location near the confluence of the Columbia River and the Pacific Ocean makes it an ideal spot for winter birdwatching. Head to Sunset Beach State Recreation Site or Fort Stevens State Park to spot species like Bald Eagles, Peregrine Falcons, and numerous waterfowl. Winter brings many migratory birds to the area, making it a prime season for bird enthusiasts. For local birdwatching tips and seasonal updates, visit the Audubon Society of Portland.

10. Day Trip to Nearby Coastal Towns

Astoria’s prime location on the northern Oregon coast makes it a great base for exploring nearby towns like Seaside and Cannon Beach. These towns offer cozy cafes, unique shops, and even more beaches to explore. Cannon Beach, famous for Haystack Rock, is particularly stunning in the winter, and Seaside offers family-friendly attractions, including arcades and the Seaside Aquarium. Find more details on Travel Oregon’s website.

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By 7016621789 April 21, 2025
As the busy vacation season ramps up along the Oregon Coast — from Astoria to Arch Cape, short-term rentals in places like Gearhart, Seaside, and Cannon Beach start seeing a major uptick in guest traffic. But while bookings go up, so does the strain on something most rental owners forget about: 👉 Your septic system. At Evans Septic, we specialize in helping coastal homeowners and vacation rental managers stay ahead of septic issues before they turn into peak-season disasters. Here's what you need to know to keep your rental running — and avoid a costly mess. 🚨 Why Vacation Rentals Are Harder on Septic Systems Unlike full-time homes, vacation rentals often face irregular — but intense — usage. A home built for 4 people might suddenly be hosting 8 or more for a weekend. Multiply that over a few back-to-back bookings, and you’ve got: Excessive water usage Increased solid waste Higher risk of flushing harmful materials And unlike plumbing clogs that might just slow things down, a septic system backup can lead to raw sewage, foul odors, and canceled bookings. 🧰 How to Prepare Your Septic System Before Guests Arrive 1. Schedule a Pre-Season Septic Inspection We recommend all vacation rentals in Seaside, Gearhart, and Cannon Beach get a professional inspection before Memorial Day. This quick check-up can identify: Full tanks Root intrusion Drainfield saturation Leaks or broken baffles ✔️ Evans Septic offers full inspections with clear, written reports — perfect for STR owners and property managers. 2. Pump Your Tank if It’s Been 2+ Years Even if the system seems to be working fine, an overloaded tank can become a ticking time bomb. Vacation rental properties should be pumped more frequently than full-time residences, especially if: The property sleeps more than 6 guests It sees heavy seasonal turnover You haven't pumped it in the last 2 years 📍 We provide pumping services across the Oregon Coast — including Astoria, Warrenton, Arch Cape, and beyond. 3. Leave Clear Septic Guidelines for Guests Most guests don’t realize they’re staying in a home with a septic system — and will treat your plumbing like a city sewer line. That’s why clear guest communication is key. We recommend: A sign in the bathroom that reads: “This home is on a septic system. Please DO NOT flush wipes, feminine products, or anything other than toilet paper.” A small placard near kitchen sinks advising against food grease and harsh chemicals. Want a printable sign? We’ll send you a free downloadable template when you book a service with us. 4. Install Effluent Filters or Alarms Effluent filters help trap solids before they enter your drainfield, while high-level alarms can alert you before an overflow happens. These are especially helpful for absentee owners or property managers who aren’t on site. 🛠️ We install and maintain both — just ask during your next service. 🧽 What to Do If a Septic Emergency Happens Mid-Booking If your rental guests report: Slow or gurgling drains Bad smells from bathrooms Sewage in showers or the yard... Call Evans Septic immediately. We provide emergency service to all towns along the coast and will discreetly and professionally resolve the issue — often the same day. 🌊 Evans Septic: Your Oregon Coast Septic Partner ✅ Based in Gearhart ✅ Serving Astoria, Seaside, Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, and all coastal communities ✅ Emergency pumping, inspections, maintenance, and upgrades ✅ Family-owned and trusted for over 50 years Book Now Before the Rush Peak season is coming. Don’t wait for a call from an angry guest to realize your septic system needs attention.
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By 7016621789 March 6, 2025
Living in Cannon Beach, Oregon, you’re used to the damp, salty air, breathtaking ocean views, and the occasional winter chill. But when temperatures drop, many homeowners start asking: Can my septic system freeze? The short answer? Yes, septic systems can freeze—but with the right precautions, you can prevent it from happening. Let’s break it down: why septic systems freeze, what happens when they do, and how you can keep yours running smoothly all winter long. Why Do Septic Systems Freeze? A septic system relies on warmth and bacteria to break down waste. When temperatures dip too low, especially for extended periods, certain parts of the system can freeze, causing blockages, backups, and even damage to pipes and tanks. In Cannon Beach, winters are typically mild compared to other parts of Oregon, but sudden cold snaps can still pose a risk. Here’s what makes a septic system more vulnerable to freezing: 🚰 Lack of regular use – If you have a vacation home in Cannon Beach that sits empty for long periods, the lack of water flow can lead to freezing. 💧 Poor insulation – Shallow or exposed pipes and tanks are more likely to freeze if they aren’t properly covered by soil or vegetation. 🌊 Water leaks – Dripping faucets or running toilets can allow a slow trickle of water to freeze inside pipes, creating blockages. 🚜 Compacted soil – If the soil above your septic system gets compacted (from vehicles, foot traffic, or heavy snow), it can reduce insulation, making it easier for frost to penetrate. What Happens If My Septic System Freezes? A frozen septic system isn’t just inconvenient—it can lead to major problems, including: 💩 Sewage backups – If wastewater can’t flow through frozen pipes, it could back up into your home. (Not exactly the ocean breeze you were hoping for.) 🛠️ Cracked pipes or tanks – Ice expands, and if water freezes inside pipes, it can lead to cracks or bursts. 🚫 Drain field failure – If your drain field freezes, it won’t be able to filter wastewater properly, causing potential contamination and environmental issues. How to Prevent Your Septic System from Freezing Good news! With a little preparation, you can keep your septic system safe from freezing—even in colder weather. Here’s what to do: ✅ Use your system regularly – Running warm water through your drains helps prevent freezing. If you have a seasonal home, consider scheduling periodic check-ins during winter months. ✅ Fix leaks ASAP – Even a small trickle can contribute to ice buildup. Inspect faucets, toilets, and pipes for leaks. ✅ Insulate exposed pipes and tanks – Cover vulnerable areas with mulch, straw, or insulation blankets to trap heat. ✅ Let the grass grow over your septic tank – A natural layer of vegetation acts as insulation. Avoid mowing too short before winter. ✅ Avoid compacting the ground – Don’t park vehicles or heavy equipment over your septic system, as this can reduce insulation and increase the risk of freezing. What to Do If Your Septic System Freezes If your septic system does freeze, do NOT try to thaw it with an open flame or hot water—this can cause damage and make the problem worse. Instead, follow these steps: 1️⃣ Stop using water immediately – Reduce wastewater production to prevent backups. 2️⃣ Call a septic professional – We’re based near Cannon Beach and can assess the problem safely. 3️⃣ Use temporary heating options – In some cases, adding heat (like wrapping pipes in heating tape) may help thaw minor freezes. Need Septic Help in Cannon Beach? We’ve Got You Covered At [Your Company Name], we specialize in septic system maintenance, inspections, and winter-proofing in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, and surrounding areas. Whether you need a pre-winter checkup, emergency service, or just advice on keeping your system in top shape, we’re here to help. Call us today to schedule an inspection and keep your septic system running smoothly—no matter the season! 🚽❄️
By 7016621789 March 6, 2025
Let’s be real—septic systems aren’t exactly the most glamorous topic. But if you own a home or business in Cannon Beach, Oregon, and you’re not thinking about your septic system, you might end up with a very unpleasant surprise. (And trust us, nobody wants a surprise when it comes to septic tanks.) So, let’s talk all things septic—how to keep your system happy, when to pump it, and why ignoring it is a very bad idea. First Things First: How Does a Septic System Work? Septic systems are basically private wastewater treatment plants for homes and businesses that aren’t connected to city sewer lines. Instead of your waste heading to a municipal treatment facility, it gets processed in a buried tank and then filtered into a drain field. When it’s working well, it’s an eco-friendly, low-maintenance solution. When it’s not working well… let’s just say it becomes everyone’s problem real fast. Signs Your Septic System is Screaming for Help Most people don’t think about their septic tank until it starts acting up, but the warning signs are always there: 🚽 Slow drains throughout the house? It’s not just your teenager’s 45-minute showers. 💩 A certain odor creeping into your yard? Nature’s way of telling you, "Hey, pump the tank!" 🌊 Puddles forming in your yard when it hasn’t rained? That’s not a new feature—it’s a problem. If you notice any of these, it’s time to call in the pros (that’s us!). How Often Should You Pump Your Septic Tank in Cannon Beach? The magic number is every 3-5 years for most homes, but that depends on: ✔️ The size of your tank ✔️ How many people are using it (big families = more flushing) ✔️ What’s going down your drains (hint: only flush the three P’s—pee, poo, and (toilet) paper) If you’re running a vacation rental in Cannon Beach, your system probably gets more use than a regular home, which means you might need more frequent pumping. What You Should Never Put in Your Septic System Septic tanks are tough, but they’re not invincible. Here’s what not to send down your pipes unless you want a messy, expensive problem: ❌ Grease and cooking oils (they clog everything) ❌ "Flushable" wipes (spoiler: they’re not flushable) ❌ Coffee grounds (bad for your plumbing, worse for your septic) ❌ Harsh chemicals (they kill the good bacteria your system needs) Why Choose Us for Septic Services in Cannon Beach? We’re not just here for emergency backups—we’re your go-to team for regular maintenance, pumping, and keeping your system in top shape. Being located nearby means we can get to you fast, whether you’re in Cannon Beach, Arch Cape, or anywhere in the area. Need a pump-out? Wondering if your drain field is okay? Just want to talk septic (hey, we don’t judge)? Give us a call. We’re here to help—so you can flush your worries away.