South Coast Strider Hike Announcement, April 20

Sunset Bay to Cape Arago – Sunday, April 26 – Hike from Sunset Bay to Cape Arago – A Hike with Three Options
Requires Registration–Registration Form. This hike is limited to 15 people, but if demand is high (and we have enough leaders) we can stagger start times. Also, there is a short hike option that goes from Sunset Bay to Shore Acres and back. To volunteer to lead, send an email to hikes@coostrails.com. Hike Description: The whole hike goes from Sunset Bay Day Use Area, along the coast through Shore Acres up toward the Simpson Reef Overlook. From there we’ll continue to Simpson Reef and then cross the road to the Pack Trail connector, and on to Cape Arago. Then you can return either by the same route or along the road as far as the Simpson Reef overlook, returning the same way you came. The total hike is about 8.5 miles if we take the shortcuts across the field at Shore Acres and the group campground at Sunset Bay. Short Hike–This will just go to Shore Acres and back. It will be under four miles, all pretty level. I need a volunteer to lead the short hike…or you will need to return on your own.  Another option–You can hike as far as Simpson Reef, and then return. This will be almost 8 miles, but it’s all level. You’ll be on your own for the return. See the announcement on the Coos Trails Website. New Hike Guidelines: Hike groups will be limited to 15 people. You will be asked to complete a registration form so that we can control the number. Hikers will be asked to maintain social distance (as much as 10-12 feet) on the trail. Hikers will be asked to have face covering (like a bandana) that can be pulled up at tight spots on the trail. Hikers should step off the trail to let others pass. The trail from Sunset Bay to Simpson Reef Overlook is often crowded on Sunday so these guidelines will be important. Other Information: The restrooms at the Sunset Bay Day use area were open last week. There are restrooms at Shore Acres (at about the 2.2 and 7 mile points of the hikes). For those on the long hike, we’ll be stopping for lunch at Cape Arago. We suggest you might want to snack at the Simpson Reef Overlook, because lunch will be later than usual. Location and Time: Meet 9:30 am at Sunset Bay day use parking lot, near volley ball courts and restrooms at south end of Sunset Bay. The short version of the hike will end before noon(unless you spend time in the gardens), and the long version at 2:30. Driving Directions: From Hwy 101 in downtown Coos Bay follow the signs 12.3 miles through Charleston to Sunset Bay State Park. Park in the day use parking lot. Remember to complete registration form.