I did not do the first 4 miles of the Oregon Coast Trail. I started south on the beach from the wreck of the Peter Iredale. I parked my car at Fort Stevens State Park and walked south to the Ecola State Park Hiker's Camp. I actually camped a bit short of the Adirondac shelters since there were a couple of people with dogs at the camp. The first 16 miles is beach and street walking. The last 4 miles is on the Tillamook Head trail which rises from near sea level to 920 feet. There are some spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean.
Sunday, February 23, 2014 (8 miles)
I woke up early and hit the trail at 5:45 AM and used my headlamp. Saw a very tame deer just before getting off the trail and back to Seaside. It was only about 30 feet from me and didn't even stop feeding when I said "Good Morning, Deer". I hiked to Gearhart and decided to cut the hike short and call a cab. I was worried about getting back to my car before they locked up the gated compound it was parked in. Good weather both days. Low 50s and no rain. Got down to around freezing at night, but I was cozy under my tarp in my Marmot Helium sleeping bag.
Some logistics:
Email park.info@state.or.us and let them know your plans. They will forward you to the right park office.
At Fort Stevens State Park, turn left at the main stop sign and then take your first left into the gated compound.
From the Peter Iredale wreck, there are 12 miles of beach walking with no services, so plan water and restroom breaks accordingly.
Bathroom and water facilities:
- Fort Steven's State Park
- Seaside 12th Avenue Beach Access (Seaside restrooms are on city water)
- Seaside Broadway Beach Access
- Seaside Sunset Blvd "surfer's" restroom (just before climbing the hill)
If you need to cut your hike short:
- Seaside cab - 503-738-5252
Here is the map: http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PARKS/docs/OCT_a.pdf
