Arch Cape Loop Hike

Overview

This is a low tide loop that takes in several coastal features and environments. Cove Beach lies between Arch Cape and Cape Falcon: There are a couple of points of access for the public. The beach is backed by a high bar of lava cobbles which clink and clank when the high tides reach them; thus, it is also known as “Magic Rocks Beach.” The stretch of sand is entirely covered by high tides. Gull Rock is close to the shore, while Castle Rock juts up farther offshore. At either end of the beach are lava headlands, but the community of Cove sits on a soft former ocean floor and a few houses have already slid down the slope. At low tide, you can walk around Arch Cape through the Arch Cape Arch to pass a couple of sea caves in the making. Then head inland to walk under Highway 101 on the route of the Oregon Coast Trail, which takes you through lush Sitka spruce/hemlock forest into Oswald West State Park. You'll hike the last section of the route down Falcon Cove Road to your car. Make sure you time your arrival at the Tide Road Trailhead for about one hour/45 minutes before low tide. A walk up and down Cove Beach only is 3.4 miles round-trip, but again, you'll only get sand around the time of low tide. Take the new stairway down to the beach. Find your way past the driftwood and onto the wide bar of lava cobbles which backs the entire beach. It’s much easier to walk on the sand, however. To explore the south end of the beach, cross Mason Creek to reach the rocks of the Cape Falcon headland. The slumping bluff here is set to claim one or two more homes in the near future. You'll see the second public access point to the beach in the form of a steep path that leads up next to the creek. The best tide pools are at the south end of the beach. At very low tide, you can scramble round two points to two secluded beaches, but make sure you have time to get back! Return to pass the access stairway. At low tide, a pool forms at the base of the cobbles. Walk north towards Arch Cape. Cross Mason Creek and look up to see the

Trail Stats

Photos

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