Indian Sands
Near the top of the hill north of Whales Head on Rt 101 is the entrance to the Indian Sands parking lot. There is good view of the coast northward from the parking lot. The trail exits the south side of the parking lot & goes up a little before it cuts steeply down the hill with several switchbacks. I figure that if I can make it up this hill without stopping for a breath at my age, I’m in pretty good shape.
At the bottom of the hill it joins the Oregon Coast Trail. By taking the OCT to the right a short hike will take you to Indian Sands. This is a open area preached on rocky cliffs above the ocean. The terrain is varied & well worth exploring. There are rock outcrops, sea crevices, clay hills & drifting sand.
The most popular place to visit is down hill to the left just as you reach the open area. This will take you down to a very small cove with a large natural sea tunnel on the south and a small waterfall dropping approx. 80 ft. to the water in the cove. This is a very appealing spot because waves are always pushing thru the tunnel & mixing with waves coming in from the side open to the sea. This water mixes & churns, forming many patterns, swirls & is fun to watch. Many locals, including myself, like to check this out during storms when the waves are thrown high against the rocks & the churning of the waves are spell binding.
Continuing north on 101 you will cross the Thomas Creek Bridge. At 345 ft it is the highest bridge in Oregon. Its a shame you can’t stop on the bridge because that is where the best views are. There are no really good overlooks of the bridge. A very steep bush whack trail goes down to the creek. I do not recommend this trail, it is for the young & foolish.
Next post will cover Natural Bridges & Thunder Rock Cove
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