The Scenic Spots in the Pacific Northwest That Hoaxed Uses for Inspiration

When it comes to finding inspiration, different artists look to different things to get their creativity moving. For some, it’s historical war footage. For others, a contemplative sit alone with some coffee. For the women of Hoaxed, the goth rock duo that just released their debut album Two Shadows today, it’s their immediate surroundings.

Hailing from Portland, Oregon, both vocalist and guitarist Kat Keo and drummer Kim Coffel get to enjoy the majestic beauty of sprawling forests, miles of active coastline, and massive vistas with mountains dotting the horizon.

So with their album now available via Relapse Records wherever you buy music and on streaming platforms, the women of Hoaxed share their favorite spots to relax, recharge, and find inspiration.

Mt. Tabor

We both live close to Mt Tabor and visit the park frequently. The combination of old stonework and abundant green is extremely soothing after a long day. As small as this park seems, you can spend hours here exploring the trails and offerings – we recommend checking out the Narnia lamp post or catching a perfect view of the sunset from midway up the east side. We’ve spent many a New Years Eve here welcoming in the New Year.

Rooster Rock

One of our favorites places to walk (and take band photos…). It’s a gorgeous view no matter which way you look – mountains and cliffs shrouded in mist in the distance, a spectacular river, breathtaking forests (both on the Oregon side to explore and across the river on the Washington side to observe). We love this spot. Kat says it’s “where I go to reset.”

Oregon Coast

The Oregon coast is truly a gem, but Yachats and the surrounding areas are particularly spectacular. From seal sightings and gentle tide pools, to the magnificent cliff-sides and thunderous waves – it’s a feast for the senses. We love to come here to unwind and reconnect. We also had a ghost encounter in a rented Yachats cabin which made this area extra special for us. 

Crater Lake

This place feels sacred. Some of the most awe-inspiring views paired with low altitude, steep drop-offs, treacherous trails, and abundant wildlife. Magnificent danger surrounds you while you’re here. Everyone should visit Crater Lake at least once in their lifetime, especially if they’re a Pacific Northwest resident. 

Hoh Rainforest

Picture a Pacific Northwest rainforest dripping with moss. The trees are old and tall, and the ground is overgrown. Even the shortest nature trail can take hours as there’s so much to see all around you.

“My husband took me on a date here and it was very hard to leave,” Kim said.

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Like with most places on the Oregon coast, this viewpoint is a place for self reflection and appreciating the vast ocean. Cold waves rush over rounded black stones that fill the beach instead of sand. There’s a special clicking sound the stones and water make as the tide recedes. For most of the year, it’s cold and windy and feels like home.

Wreck of the Peter Iredale

This is a 100+ year old shipwreck that is slowly being washed away by the ocean. Go now while you can still see the metal skeleton of the ship, but be warned, “I’ve never seen clear weather there, and the tides come in quick” -Kim

Remember, you can pick up Two Shadows today wherever you get your music. Maybe you’ll even get to hear the inspiration these locations brought to the mix.

Hoaxed, Two Shadows

1. Two Shadows
2. The Call
3. The Knowing
4. For Love
5. Grand Illusions
6. High Seas
7. Guilty Ones
8. Where Good Won’t Go
9. Forsaken