2 min
Overview
Coffenbury Lake, part of Fort Stevens State Park, is one of many shallow interdune lakes on the Clatsop Plains, a sandy and now vegetated expanse formed by deposition from the Columbia River. Even though there are no inflowing or outflowing streams, the water level fluctuates as much as six feet with changes in the water table. The short loop hike is very close to the park's campground and is recommended for families with smaller children. There is even a summer swimming area! For those with time and energy, Coffenbury Lake can also be visited as part of the Fort Stevens Loop Hike. Walk below the restrooms and through the picnic area. Head right along the shore and a small sandy beach to pick up the footpath leading up the alder-lined west shore of the lake. The path rises under Sitka spruce with evergreen huckleberry, sword fern, salal and holly in the undergrowth. Then the trail drops and keeps along a shoreline shaded by cedars and shore pines. Reach some larger spruces and the marshy south end of the lake. At a trail junction, go left on a vegetated causeway with more wetland on the right (Spur trails here connect with the private trails of OMSI's Camp Kiwanilong). The trail runs close to the eastern shore now. Look for waterfowl, including flotillas of buffleheads. You're also likely to see mallards and cormorants. Pass through a grassy picnic area and keep to the shore to pick up the trail again. In spring, you might enjoy the odd sight of steelhead wallowing in the shallows: these are surplus hatchery fish that have been released here. Eventually, reach the Coffenbury Lake Trailhead and your vehicle.
Trail Stats
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10 m
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Photos
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