Wreck of the Peter Iredale, Haunting Shipwreck on the Oregon Coast

The Oregon coast is home to rich and varied habitats as well as unique glimpses into history, and that’s where the wreck of the Peter Iredale fits right in.

Wreck of the Peter Iredale directions
Wreck of the Peter Iredale hours
Wreck of the Peter Iredale map

The Peter Iredale Shipwreck: Resting on the Oregon Coast Near Fort Stevens

Where it couldn’t best the waters of the Pacific Ocean and the treacherous voyage into the mouth of the Columbia River, the Wreck of the Peter Iredale shipwreck
has remained steadfast against the passage of time.

Her naked ribs have settled stark and stern against the white-capped waves of the Oregon coast. Emerging from the sand like a mythical beast, she even stands immune to the visitors who scramble across her mighty bones.

But despite her stoic nature, the wreck of the Peter Iredale is a reminder of the ocean’s greedy pull and the haunting mirage of a foggy Oregon coast.

What Happened to the Peter Iredale: Shipwreck History

The Peter Iredale, a four-masted steel bark schooner, left Salina Cruz, Mexico on September 26, 1906. She was bound for Portland, Oregon where she would load a cargo of wheat, before setting sail for England.

According to historical reports, the early voyage up the Oregon Coast was uneventful but for the discovery of two stowaways while enroute to the mouth of the Columbia River.

Records also report that Captain Lawrence spotted the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse at 3:20 am on Oct. 25^th, indicating that it was time to ready the mighty ship for her entry into the Columbia.

Sails were shortened and course corrections were made to rendezvous with the pilot ship, but it was an appointment the Iredale never made. As a heavy fog rolled in, waves kicked up along the shore. Combined with a rising tide and powerful currents, the ship began to drift toward land.

The Peter Iredale shipwreck under starlight, reflecting in a pool of water.

“A heavy southeast wind blew and a strong current prevailed,” said Captain Lawrence. “Before the vessel could be veered around, she was in the breakers and all efforts to keep her off were unavailing.” The Peter Iredale came to rest on Clatsop Spit on the Oregon coast, down shore from Fort Stevens and just 4 miles south of the mouth of the Columbia River. Thanks to the efforts of rescuers from Hammond, who braved the seas to save the crew, not a single life was lost.

The same could not be said for the Peter Iredale. Eventually, the bulk of the ship would be sold for scrap, leaving the ghostly skeleton of the Peter Iredale shipwreck as a reminder of the ocean’s treachery.

Respecting What’s Left of the Peter Iredale Shipwreck

people walking in front of the Peter Iredale shipwreck

Today, the Peter Iredale shipwreck seems to challenge the ocean that ran her aground. While the bulk of her massive innards lay submerged beneath the sand, the great bow emerges from the Oregon Coast, heralding her victory over destructive tides and erosion.

But the battle is ongoing and won’t be won forever. The Peter Iredale shipwreck is one of Oregon’s scenic places. If you visit, please do so with respect. While preserving the Iredale against the onslaught of nature may be impossible, we can do our best not to hasten her demise.

While climbing over the remains of the Peter Iredale shipwreck may look like a fun adventure, nature is rapidly taking a toll on the structure. Climbing or walking across the beams not only hastens the deterioration but could result in injury.

Visiting the Peter Iredale Shipwreck

The Peter Iredale shipwreck now resides on state-owned lands just 10.2 miles west of downtown Astoria.

Peter Iredale Shipwreck Directions

Shipwreck of the Peter Iredale with the rising tide

To reach the remains, take NW Ridge Road north to Peter Iredale Road.

Peter Iredale road leads right through the Fort Stevens State Park, ending at the Oregon Coast. There is ample parking at the end of the road and some people will drive directly onto the beach. During the off-season this is permissible north of Peter Iredale Road up to the jetty at the south side of the Columbia River.

You won’t find a single best season to visit the wreck of the Iredale, or the Oregon Coast, as heavy winds, fog and chill temperatures can persist right through the summer. It’s better to focus on being prepared for any weather, carrying a jacket in spring, summer and fall, and a heavy coat, hats and gloves for winter.

One thing is for certain. Given the time the wreck has been buried in the sand and the relentlessness of nature, there is never a better time to visit than now.

Wreck of the Peter Iredale hours

Google indicates that the Peter Iredale closes at 10:00 pm, indicating that the gates to the state lands may close at that time. However, you’ll want to visit when there is daylight or strong moonlight for the best views.