Hike Bayocean Spit: Explore the Dynamic Coast and a Town Lost to the Sea

Step back in time and uncover the fascinating story of our coastline during a guided exploration of Bayocean Spit. Discover the remains of a once-thriving community now hidden beneath the salal and sand, and learn how nature and human actions shaped its remarkable history.

Join Clair Thomas of the Garibaldi Cultural Heritage Initiative and Friends of Netarts Bay – WEBS Saturday, June 13th for an engaging walk through one of the Oregon Coast’s most unique landscapes. Along the way, Clair will share captivating stories about the people who once called Bayocean home and explain how powerful natural forces, combined with human-made changes to the spit, led to the town’s decline.

This easy-to-moderate hike takes participants along the bay, across scenic dunes, and down the ocean beach at the meeting place of Tillamook Bay and the Pacific Ocean. As you explore this dynamic coastal environment, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for both the ecological richness and the human history of this extraordinary sand spit.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, nature lover, this walk offers a unique opportunity to experience the past while enjoying this beautiful area.

Registration is required for this free event. Learn more at:https://www.netartsbaywebs.org/events 

This popular event fills up quickly! If the event is full, please add your name to the waitlist so we can reach out if spots become available. 

What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes, water, and snacks are a must! Binoculars are highly encouraged. The climate can change quickly along the coast, ranging from warm to cool and breezy, so please bring the gear you need to stay comfortable.

Difficulty: Easy to moderate due to the challenges of walking on the soft and wet sand. Participants should be prepared to walk 3 miles over flat gravel, dry and wet sand, and up/down trails over sand dunes. We will make multiple stops to discuss the ecology and history of the area. Participants are welcome to join for all or part of the hike.

If bad weather develops, an alternate plan will be communicated to the registered participants.

Parking: This is a Tillamook County Park-managed parking area. Please be sure to bring your annual pass and/or credit card (cash is not accepted) to pay the $10 parking fee.

Connect with the Friends of Netarts Bay WEBS online! 

Website: www.netartsbaywebs.org

Facebook and Instagram: @netartsbaywebs