HIKING FAQs

Frequently asked questions about the trail

Q: How long is the trail?

A: The trail is 6.5 miles ONE WAY from Fort Clatsop to Sunset Beach.

Q: How difficult is the hike?

A: The trail is rated as medium ability. The section from Sunset Beach trailhead to the viewing platform overlooking the Pacific Ocean is completely ADA accessible. This part of the trail is graveled and has wide footbridges.

Moving west to east:

The path is narrow and sandy between Sunset Beach and U.S. Highway 101,

From Highway 101 to the top of Clatsop Ridge, hikers will pass through coastal woodlands, pastures and wetlands. Here visitors can expect dirt surface with seasonal muddy patches.

Between Clatsop Ridge and Fort Clatsop, the trail is graveled and has an ADA parking lot one-half mile past the entrance to Fort Clatsop.

For more information on accessibility, contact the Fort Clatsop Visitor Center at 503-861-2471, x 214.

Q: Do I have to hike the whole trail?

A: No! You can have a wonderful trail experience by hiking only part of the trail. Hikers may start at either end. Favorite hikes include:

• 1.5 miles from the Visitor Center at Fort Clatsop to the top of Clatsop Ridge, a 400-foot climb in elevation.
  
• 4.0 miles from the Visitor Center at Fort Clatsop to U.S. Highway 101. However, there is no designated parking at Highway 101.
  
• 6.25 miles from the Visitor Center at Fort Clatsop to the trailhead parking lot at Sunset Beach.
  
• 2.0 miles from the Sunset Beach trailhead parking lot to Highway 101. (No parking area.)
  
• 0.65-mile walk from the Sunset Beach trailhead to the viewing platform overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
  
• 1.0-mile walk from the Sunset Beach trailhead to the Neacoxie Lake bridge, through coastal woodlands.

Q: How can I get back to my car?

A: It depends on the season. During the winter months, there is no direct shuttle between the Sunset Beach and Fort Clatsop trailheads. Old Gray Cab of Warrenton (503-861-1735) will transport up to five hikers for approximately $18 between the two trailheads. From June 12 through Labor Day Sunset Empire Transit will have hourly bus service that would connect to Fort Clatsop via a transfer in Warrenton. Watch this page for information as it becomes available.

Q: When are the trailhead parking areas open?

A: The Sunset Beach trailhead parking lot is open 7 am to 9 pm, seven days a week. Fort Clatsop parking is open 9 am to 5 pm, seven days a week.

Q: How should I prepare for hiking the trail?

A: Dress in layers as coastal weather can change rapidly. As you enjoy the native surroundings, be aware there are no food, water or medical supplies. Please carry what you need with you. Cell phone reception is spotty.

Q: Can I bring my dog?

A: Dogs, on six-foot leads, are welcome on the two ends of the trail, from Sunset Beach to U.S Highway 101 (2.0 miles) and from the Fort Clatsop Visitors Center to Clatsop Ridge (1.5 miles). Because of large game animals and other wildlife, dogs are not permitted on the center section of the trail. Please be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your pet.

Q: What might I see along the trail?

A: Moving east to west, coastal forest leads to wetlands before opening out to the Pacific Ocean. Watch for wildlife such as deer and elk, and enjoy the vast variety of native plant life.