Here, you’ll find some of the best Oregon coast hikes, such as the Sunset Bay to Cape Arago State Park Trail as well as the Bastendorff Bog Trail. Whether you’re a hiking newbie or an adventure junkie, Coos Bay offers trails for everyone to experience the breathtaking beauty that surrounds this picturesque coastal city.
Coos Bay, Oregon weather offers fantastic opportunities year-round to hike safely and make the most of your Pacific Northwest vacation. While North Bends trails and hikes can be enjoyed year-round, the best times to embark on your journey are from mid-June through September, when you can expect drier weather and the lowest tides, ensuring a delightful and memorable experience.
Trail Length: 4 miles roundtrip
Experience an exhilarating hike amidst the captivating coastal Oregon dunes by venturing out on the John Dellenback Dunes Loop.
The trail begins at the John Dellenback Trailhead, where you have the option to continue on a one-mile nature loop hike. However, for true adventure seekers, the real thrill awaits beyond the marked path, among the vast and sprawling dunes.
As you progress, the trail will lead you to the beach, where you can choose to follow the path of wooden posts leading .7 miles down to the shore. Alternatively, embrace your adventurous spirit and explore the area on your terms, all while adhering to safe hiking practices. Whatever path you choose, you are sure to have an unforgettable hiking experience.
Trail Length: 8.5 miles round trip
Nestled along the renowned Oregon Coast, the Sunset Bay to Cape Arago Trail offers a moderately challenging adventure, enticing hikers with an array of captivating sights along the way. The expedition begins at the picturesque Sunset Bay State Park in Coos Bay, OR, and meanders through the vibrant and colorful gardens of Shore Acres State Park, adding a touch of botanical charm to the journey.
As you press on, you’ll find yourself in Cape Arago State Park, where a rewarding surprise awaits — a sea lion viewpoint, providing a unique opportunity to witness these majestic marine animals in their natural habitat. The return trip takes you past rock formations that will leave you in awe.
This trail can be broken up into many different segments to accommodate hikers of all skill levels.
Trail Length: 3.9 miles round trip
Known for its stunning views of the Oregon Coast, the Cape Arago Loop Trail, located in Cape Arago State Park, is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. Starting at the Cape Arago Pack Trailhead and ending at the Simpson Reef Viewpoint, the trail treats visitors to a breathtaking display of the area’s rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and the majestic Pacific Ocean.
There are also many opportunities to encounter marine life, such as seals, sea lions, and various seabirds, so make sure to keep a lookout. The trail’s ease of accessibility adds to its popularity, making it an excellent choice for both families and beginners seeking to immerse themselves in the coastal wonders of Oregon.
Trail Length: 3.1 miles roundtrip (three trail lengths combined)
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through the Golden and Silver Falls trails, where you’ll witness the second and third-tallest waterfalls along the Oregon coast. You have the choice of three easy trails: one leading to Silver Falls, another to Golden Falls, and a third that allows you to experience both cascades.
As you hike along these paths, be prepared to be captivated by the beauty of Glenn and Silver creeks, surrounded by a lush array of vegetation, including myrtle and maple trees, sword ferns, and salmonberry thickets.
The highlight of this serene Oregon setting undoubtedly lies in the magnificent waterfalls that will leave you in awe. So, whether you choose to explore one or all of these trails, breathtaking views and temperate Coos Bay weather await you.
Trail Length: 3.8 miles roundtrip
Trek through the tidal marshlands on the South Slough Loop Trail, part of the National Estuarine Research Reserve System, which has been dedicated to preserving and safeguarding marshlands and estuaries since the 1970s.
Before you begin your journey, stop by the visitor center, located at the trail’s entrance, for a deeper understanding of this unique ecological wonder and its rich history. As you explore, you may come across a variety of diverse vegetation, such as Port Orford cedar, Sitka spruce, salal, and wax myrtle.
You should also keep an eye out for bats, deer, salmon, otters, and a variety of birds that call the South Slough home. This hike is easy enough for all hikers to enjoy and experience the natural beauty of this unforgettable site.
Trail Length: 4.7 miles roundtrip
Located in Sunset Bay State Park in Coos Bay, Oregon, the Shore Acres Loop Hike is a delightful coastal adventure that promises magnificent views. This easy, scenic trail takes hikers through the stunning gardens in Shore Acres State Park, provides captivating vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged Oregon coastline, and even offers a sighting of the Cape Arago Lighthouse.
The trail is well-maintained and accessible, making it suitable for hikers of various skill levels. Combine this hike with the Cape Arago Loop Trail if you’re looking for a bit more of a challenge. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking an escape by the sea, this hike is sure to leave you with lasting memories of the Oregon coast.
Trail Length: .9 miles
The Bastendorff Bog Trail may not be as well-known as others, but it is a hidden gem that should not be overlooked when seeking hiking trails in the Coos Bay area. Often used as a shortened route from Basetendorff Beach to Sunset Bay, this trail doesn’t lack in spectacular views.
Stretching from the Sunset State Park campground to the Yoakam Point Trailhead, the hike offers a delightful blend of beach, forest, and rocky vistas. In addition, the trail boasts a unique bog portion, adorned with lush ferns and skunk cabbage patches.
For those seeking a short but rewarding adventure, this trail proves to be a charming and diverse exploration of Oregon’s natural beauty.
Coos Bay, Oregon’s trails and parks follow the 7 principles of Leave No Trace:
If you’re planning on visiting one of these areas, please make sure to abide by these guidelines to ensure that the trails and parks are maintained and remain beautiful for future generations to enjoy.
Explore some of the most-asked questions about Coos Bay and North Bend trails.
There are options available if you’re looking for a guided hiking tour in Coos Bay. A local recreational hiking group called The South Coast Striders arranges and guides hikes throughout the year and invites others to join them.
Touring companies within the Coos Bay area also offer guided hiking tours, such as Oregon’s Adventure Coast.
As with any outdoor adventure, it is important to be prepared when you embark on your hike in Coos Bay. The weather and tides in this area can often be unpredictable, so some essential equipment and gear that might be helpful to bring is a tide table, first aid kit, rain jacket or poncho, water, food, and appropriate shoes. A list of other supply suggestions and considerations can be found on the Oregon Coast Trail Foundation website.
Although hiking in the Coos Bay area can be both a beautiful and rewarding experience, there are safety precautions to keep in mind to ensure a safe and enjoyable hike.
Due to the wet weather conditions in the area, surfaces can be slippery. Wearing appropriate shoes, such as hiking boots, running shoes, or sandals, depending on the terrain, can help prevent slips and falls.
Another consideration to keep in mind is the tides. Tides can rise and cover segments of the trail completely, making it virtually impossible to cross and often dangerous. Keeping up to date with the tides and having a tide table chart would be beneficial.
Some trails also involve walking along busy highways. Having a plan and the appropriate gear and clothing, such as reflective vests, can help alleviate issues.
Planning ahead and researching the specific trail you will be hiking is vital and can help you gain better insight into the specific precautions you will need to take.
Apart from hiking, there are so many other adventures to experience in the Coos Bay, Oregon area. From fishing, camping, and even testing your luck at the casino, you’re bound to have an unforgettable trip.
Be sure to check out The Mill Casino website for more information and ideas.
