Blacklock Point Hike

Blacklock Point.\Photo courtesy of Southcoast Striders.

Oregon Shores has been working to secure a special site designation for Blacklock Point as a marine conservation area under the state’s new Rocky Habitat Management Strategy.  The proposal will soon be reviewed by the Ocean Policy Advisory Council.  As it happens, the Southcoast Striders hiking group is organizing a hike to this especially beautiful coastal headland, affording an opportunity to visit it and see for yourself.

The hike takes place on Saturday, June 18, beginning at 9:30 a.m. from Curry County’s Boice-Cope Park. (Note that this hike, originally announced for an earlier date, has been rescheduled.) Join the Striders for a rugged 8.2 mile journey from Floras Lake to Blacklock Point, starting along the lake, through densely wooded trails and exposed rocky points with beautiful ocean views.

There will be a short version of the hike (approximately 4 miles). This will most likely be a hike about halfway to the point and a return (possibly along the beach). The longer hike is mostly level, and the trail is in excellent condition. It begins (and ends) with soft sand, but by staying near the lake you will have pretty solid footing. There were some muddy spots a week ago, so waterproof footwear might be welcome. This hike is rated difficult, but that’s mainly due to the length. Because it’s an “out and back,” the distance can be shortened by turning around at any point. Dress in layers, windbreaker with a hood is highly recommended.  Bring water and something to eat (lunch).

Plan on 4-5 hours for the hike if you don’t return early (which is an option). There is a “restroom” at the trailhead that’s usually in pretty rough shape. People have used the campground restroom in the past.

If the demand is high, and a hike leader steps foward, there will be a second starting time about 20 minutes later.

Note that there is a $5 Day Use Fee at Boice-Cope County Park, and in the past this has sometimes been enforced for cars parked out on the road.

Directions: From Bandon or Coos Bay, travel south on Hwy. 101 to Langlois. Go one-half mile past Langlois and turn right (west) on Floras Lake Loop Road. Follow the signs 3 miles to Floras Lake and Boice-Cope County Park.

To register, go here.