What Is Thor’s Well?

What Is Thor’s Well?

Thor’s Well is a natural wonder on the Oregon Coast. Known as a “sea hole”, it looks like a bottomless pit. Water rushes in and out with the tides, creating a unique spectacle.

Many photographers and tourists are drawn to this spot. However, it can be dangerous, especially at high tide. In this article, we’ll explore what makes Thor’s Well so special.

The Ocean Sinkhole

Thor’s Well appears like a giant hole in the ocean, where water seems to drain endlessly. This happens because it’s actually a collapsed sea cave.

Over time, the roof of the cave eroded and fell in. Now, with the ocean tides, water surges up and down through the hole. This creates a dramatic effect, like a natural water fountain.

It’s most impressive during high tide or stormy weather. Thor’s Well is a beautiful but powerful reminder of nature’s force.

Where is Thor’s Well?

Thor’s Well is along the Oregon Coast, close to the Town of Yachats. It’s part of the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, renowned for its coastline.

Here, Thor’s Well sits right against the vast Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by dense forests and towering cliffs, it perfectly captures Oregon’s rugged coastline.

Within the Siuslaw National Forest, it has become a magnet for hikers and photographers. From its unique location, visitors can experience the interaction between land and sea.

Why Is There a Big Hole in the Ocean?

Thor’s Well is often called the “drainpipe of the Pacific” because of its unique ocean feature. It looks like a massive hole in the sea.

This illusion is caused by a natural rock formation. Over time, the ocean waves carved out a cavern in the coastline. Eventually, the roof of this cavern collapsed.

Now, the ocean water rushes in and out, creating a well-like appearance. During high tides or storms, this effect is most dramatic. It’s a stunning yet powerful display of nature’s force at work.

How Deep is Thor’s Well?

Thor’s Well has sparked curiosity about its depth. Despite its ominous appearance, it’s not infinitely deep. In reality, the well is about 20 feet deep. That’s only about 2 basketball nets in height!

It’s essentially a sinkhole that formed over time. The ocean waves eroded a cave under the rock. Eventually, the roof of the cave collapsed, creating the well.

When the tide is high, water shoots upwards, giving an illusion of great depth. This natural wonder is more about its dramatic spectacle than its actual depth.