The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT)
In the short time that we’ve been dedicated to exploring more of Oregon, we are learning so much! The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) spans 425 miles from Fort Sevens to the California border with 10 unique sections. We discovered it when we visited the Bob Straub State Park. We are going to seek out opportunities to explore all ten sections and we’ll report back here.
Explore more from www.oregoncoasttrail.org … The Oregon Coast Trail (OCT) traces the entirety of what is arguably the most scenic coastline in the United States. The opportunities for adventure on the OCT are substantial, and there is a little something for everyone. Hikers will enjoy landscapes of rugged off-shore sea stacks crowned with Sitka spruce, delve into thick old-growth forests with dense understories of ferns and salal, hike up and over scenic headlands, and watch marine life and sea birds along Oregon’s marine reserves. Patient observers can search for sea lions and seals, gray and humpback whales, and even vast herds of elk; history buffs can tour lighthouses that are rich with stories and perched on big vistas; and through the entire route travelers will encounter Oregon's charming coastal communities that are each filled with unique character, cozy lodging options, coffee houses, craft breweries, and delicious restaurants serving Oregon Coast food and fare. Add to that the state’s progressive Oregon Beach Bill, enacted with major support from Governor Tom McCall in 1967, which declares the entire coastline from the Columbia River to the border of California to be a public easement for recreational use. This beautiful, unmatched coastline continues to be preserved for the enjoyment of all. The most intimate way to experience what this coast has to offer is on foot, and the OCT allows hikers of all ages and abilities to become more acquainted with this spectacular region.
Totaling approximately 425 miles when walked in entirety (380 miles if the recommended water ferries are used to cross coastal bays/river mouths), it is helpful to divide and think about the OCT in 10 sections, with each section covering roughly 35-45 miles each. The trail is unique because hikers have several options in terms of how to complete it: explore and hike solely those portions of trail that call to you; thru-hike the entire trail in one-go; or section-hike the trail over a longer period of time.
Our first discover of the OCT at Bob Straub State Park in December 2020.
SECTION 3: TILLAMOOK RIVER BRIDGE TO BOB STRAUB STATE PARK/PACIFIC CITY
Section 3 proceeds along the Three Capes Scenic Route and avoids Highway 101 altogether. Some of Oregon's most scenic coastline can be seen here. The route leads from Cape Meares and its tiny lighthouse over the mighty Cape Lookout, and it ends near the fragile and diverse geology of Cape Kiwanda. Hikers may also choose to ford the potentially difficult crossing of Sand Lake. Many of the smaller coastal communities in this section also display their charm.
During our adventure to the Souther Oregon Coast in March of 2021, we discovered the OCT Section #9 at the Geisel Monument near Gold Beach.
SECTION 9: HUMBUG MOUNTAIN TO PISTOL RIVER
The trail is, again, along the highway for the first part of this section, and pedestrian travel is risky. As is common on most of the roadway segments of the OCT, rugged coastal views abound. Then there is another beach segment followed by Otter Point. The route continues through the town of Gold Beach and is followed by some old-fashioned dirt trail segments through Cape Sebastian before reaching Pistol River.