South Coast Striders Hike – The hike may vary a little from this description, because some of us will be scouting the trails this week, and may alter the trails we use. At most it will add a mile to the long hike. The hike: Beautiful wooded trails and high meadows with views that go on for miles. We have put together a sampler of this wonderful 17 mile trail system that offers lots of options for hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians. Our long hike will be 7 miles and will combine the Wapati Trail, Nelson Ridge Trail and Tasha trail. We will lunch in the meadow at the site of an old lookout tower. Hikers will have the option to shorten their hike to 3 miles by branching off on the Lookout Loop trail. The short hike will be 3 miles and is rated moderate overall, but you still have to make the climb up to the lookout. The longer hike is 7 miles and is rated difficult overall. Dress for the weather and bring plenty of water and something to eat. Hiking Sticks will make the climbing easier.Location and Time: Meet at 9:00 at N. end of Fred Meyer parking lot in Florence then drive to Dry Lake trail head; Driving Directions: Take Hwy 101 N through Florence, OR. Fred Meyer ( on your left) is part of large shopping center on N. side of town. We will meet on the N end of the lot next to the gas station. Suggested Carpool sites and Departure Times: • Coos Bay Visitor Center—7:30, • Dune Information Center in Reedsport 8:10, • Rays in Bandon—6:30, Coquille Visitor Center—7:00, • Battle Rock Park Visitor Center—6:20.
