Netarts Spit Trail

The trail primarily consists of a long, narrow sandy beach separating Netarts Bay from the Pacific Ocean. While mostly sand, some sections may have challenging cobblestones. There's also a network of inner trails through Sitka spruce, shore pine, and willow, offering an alternative to the beach walk.

The main beach section of the Netarts Spit is about 5 miles long, making the full out-and-back hike approximately 10 to 11.2 miles. Despite minimal elevation gain, continuous walking on sand contributes to its moderate to difficult rating, making it a good workout.

The Netarts Spit is rich in wildlife. You might spot threatened snowy plovers, surf scoters, great blue herons, and bald eagles. Harbor seals often sun themselves at the tip of the spit. Offshore, the Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is home to over 150 bird species, including Oregon's largest breeding colony of tufted puffins, and is a pupping site for Steller sea lions.

The Netarts Spit Trail is accessed via Cape Lookout State Park. Parking is available within the park, which serves as the primary trailhead for this hike.

Yes, as the trail is accessed through Cape Lookout State Park, a day-use parking fee or an Oregon State Parks Pass is required. You can purchase a day-use pass at the park entrance.

Dogs are generally allowed on the Netarts Spit Trail, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please be mindful of wildlife, especially nesting birds like snowy plovers, and always clean up after your pet.

It is highly recommended to plan your hike for low tide. Parts of the beach can become cut off during high tide, making passage difficult or impossible. Low tide also reveals small pools of water and mudflats at the tip of the spit, popular for clamming.

Hikers can enjoy expansive views of the Pacific Ocean, often finding sand dollars along the beach. To the south, Cape Lookout is prominent, and to the north, you can see Oceanside and Netarts. The Three Arch Rocks National Wildlife Refuge is visible about half a mile offshore. Along the bay side, you can climb dunes for views of Netarts Bay and the Coastal Mountains.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other trails. Approximately 39% of the route follows the Oregon Coast Trail, and other portions intersect with the North Trail.

Given the sandy terrain and potential for varying weather, it's advisable to bring sturdy, waterproof footwear, layers of clothing, water, snacks, and sun protection. Binoculars are great for wildlife viewing, and a tide chart is essential for planning your hike.

Yes, beyond the main beach walk, a network of trails and game paths weave through the middle of the spit. These inner trails offer an alternative to the sandy beach and can be used to shorten the overall hike, taking you through forested sections.