The 804 Trail in Yachats, Oregon, is more than just a scenic coastal path; it’s a journey through history and a testament to community effort. Once a route for the Alsea People, the area’s original inhabitants, the trail served as a critical travel corridor for fishing, gathering, and connecting villages along the rugged coastline. Their deep connection to this land is still felt in its unspoiled beauty and spiritual significance.
Fast forward to the 20th century, the 804’s public access was jeopardized when private land ownership restricted use. In a powerful display of local determination, residents and advocates fought tirelessly through legal battles and negotiations to reclaim the trail for public use. Thanks to their efforts, the 804 Trail was preserved as a treasure for everyone to experience.
Today, the 804 Trail invites visitors to walk in the footsteps of history. The trail stretches along dramatic coastal bluffs, offering sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, tide pools, and the occasional whale sighting. It’s a place for recreation, reflection, and reconnection with nature, honoring its past while remaining a cherished part of Yachats’ present.
The 804 Trail begins at the south end of Ocean View Drive, where it meets Hwy 101. The name derives from the distance between Yachats and Waldport, supposedly 8.04 miles. Starting out along Ocean View Drive toward the ocean, it travels north through the Yachats and the Smelt Sands State Parks and ends at some seasonal stairs that descend to a 7-mile stretch of sandy beach. Along the way are expansive ocean vistas and access to tide pools. At low tide, the hard beach sand makes for excellent walking. If you are arriving by car, either of the state parks would make a good starting point. The cliff path from Aqua Vista to the Adobe Resort traverses private property. Please respect the owners’ privacy.
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1.9 miles along beach
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Easy
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Easily Accessible
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1 hour one way
