Tide pools, critters and seaweeds, oh my!

Saturday, May 19, 2018 (9:30 AM)

Special Event to take advantage of a -1.4 foot tide We'll walk, talk, and explore the coastline in the vicinity of Sunset Bay State Park, looking at the organisms along the rocky intertidal and sandy shores. If you've ever wondered about the creatures in these neighborhoods, "The Blob", El Niño, sea star wasting disease, harmful algal blooms, climate change effects, the Cascadia Subduction Zone, and other phenomena on the coast, here's your chance to learn about these from a local specialist. Meet at 9:30 at the Covered Pavilion at the end of the Arago Point Loop. The trip will go from 9:30 a.m. to late morning. Be prepared for all weather conditions with layered synthetic or wool clothing, full rain gear, sun screen and shades, and plenty of water and food. Wear footwear with good traction soles on the rocks — these are *very* slippery. There is some low key bouldering. Walking sticks or hiking poles may be helpful. Bring rubber knee boots or waders, or an old pair of sneakers if you have them, but be prepared to get wet up to your knees. Cameras and binoculars suggested. This hike is rated difficult, not due to distance — about 2 miles, but because of slippery rocks. This trip is not recommended for anyone without good balance. Extreme waves (including tsunami ) or weather will cancel. No dogs on this hike.

Location and Time

 

We will meet 9:30 at the Covered Pavilion at the end of the Arago Point loop for the walk.

 

 

Driving Directions:  From Hwy 101 in downtown Coos Bay follow the signs 12.3 miles through Charleston to Sunset Bay State Park.  Continue past Simpson Reef overlook to Cape Arago point and the covered Pavilion out on the point.

 

 

Note--the early times allow us to make the most of the low tide.

 

 

 

Note: collecting rocks, sand, plants, animals, and parts thereof is illegal in the state parks. Do some homework on tide pools by reading this brochure prepared by the state parks.

South Coast Striders