the Oregon dunes

The Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is the focal point of the coastline between Florence and Coos Bay. While I visited it to see what it was all about, I found it to be mostly the world of ATVs and OHVs. What an open freeway for them!

The quieter side of the area is Salmon Harbor in Winchester Bay and the area of the Umpqua Lighthouse.

A day trip inland on Highway 38 took me up the Umpqua River to find an elk viewing area. From there, a back road led to Loon Lake, a wonderful recreation area well off the beaten path.

There are several access points along the 40-miles stretch to the dunes in the way of state parks and overlooks.

I found an emjoyable area of the dunes at the Oregon Dunes NRA overlook just north of Reedsport. From the parking lot, there are two directions available for overlooking the dunes. From either, one can take trails that lead to the beach.

This and the next few photos were taken at Horsfall Dunes, part of the Oregon Dunes NRA. Horsfall is located just north of North Bend. This area of dunes is a popular ATV and OHV area.

Another area to supposedly see the dunes is an overlook off the 101 called Taylor Dunes. I did the walk, but the dunes here weren't that impressive (unless I missed something). The trail past the Taylor Lake, however, made a nice walk.

At Horsfall there is access to the beach. This boardwalk over the grassy dunes offers a nice view of the beach. There are paths through the dunes to get to the water. Motorized vehicles are not allowed on the beach.

Along with the eateries and fresh fish markets, Winchester Bay's Salmon Harbor also has souvenir shops. Anyone who likes nautical goodies and things made of seashells will be able to fill their basket here.

The Umpqua River Lighthouse sits farther back on land than any other Oregon lighthouse. And there's a reason. The original one was placed on the sandy shore at the mouth of the river. Built in 1856, it lasted a few years, but in 1861 a particularly nasty winter damaged the foundation to the point that it became tilted. Another storm in 1863 caused more damage. The lightkeepers petitioned on deaf ear for the structure to be abandoned. Finally, their wish was granted and in January of 1864 work began on dismantling the lighthouse. As the men were working on it, it began to sway. The men ran, and within minutes the lighthouse came crashing down.