Cape Foulweather is aptly named, but what a view!

DEPOE BAY, Ore. (AP) - Cape Foulweather. Appropriately named, I thought as I ventured out to a steep viewpoint against heavy winds and sideways rain. Massive waves collided with jagged rocks below, spraying water high above the ocean.

I sought shelter from the downpour under a crooked tree, likely misshapen from years of wind damage. I hunkered down there and waited for the rain to let up.

Eventually, the rain turned to a drizzle and the clouds parted, revealing blue skies. I was free to explore once again.

I noticed the remains of a campfire and a handful of lavender wildflowers still in bloom. In the distance, I spotted the Lookout, nestled atop a 500-foot cliff.

To access this short hike, look for a narrow path along an unmarked turnout on Otter Crest Loop Road. It dips down into a wooded area and then emerges at a windswept cliff top, with majestic views of the central Oregon coastline.

If you're not up for a hike but want to enjoy the view, continue on Otter Crest Loop Road until you reach the Lookout Observatory and Gift Shop.

An historical marker, placed by the Lincoln County Historical Society, says Cape Foulweather was discovered in 1778 by English explorer Captain James Cook.

"The weather was particularly stormy on the day of his discovery (winds of 100 miles per hour at the cape are not unusual)."