News & Events

State looks to improve Oregon Coast Trail

Dec 28, 2018

The trail is an alternative to the popular Pacific Coast Trail

The 6.2 mile Gwynn Creek Loop takes hikers through old-growth forest and along the Oregon Coast Trail, which features views of Cape Perpetua in Oregon, as shown in this April 28, 2015 file photo, The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is exploring ways to improve the Oregon Coast Trail, a shorter and lesser-known route for backpackers trying to complete the popular Pacific Coast Trail. (Zach Urness/Statesman-Journal via AP, file)


ASTORIA — Dissuaded by snow and dangerous river crossings, some backpackers ditched the popular Pacific Crest Trail in early 2017 and turned to the shorter, less well-known Oregon Coast Trail.

Though the trail was declared “hikeable” in 1988, hikers looking to walk it from end to end struggled to navigate gaps between segments and faced unclear signs, few legal camping options and, in general, a trail that wasn’t quite ready for them. Now the state is looking for solutions.

This month, the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department held several open house presentations across the state to gather feedback from stakeholders about the trail.

BY KATIE FRANKOWICZ • THE DAILY ASTORIAN

Read Full Story