Advice for Safe Hikes on Oregon Coast This Summer: Sheriffs Responded to 10 Incidents in '24

Published 05/10/26 at 7:55 a.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Lincoln City, Oregon) - The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents and visitors to plan carefully before heading onto Oregon coast trails. 'Tis the season for wandering the backwoods and deep forests. The LCSO is noting that Search and Rescue teams responded to 10 calls in 2024 for missing or lost hikers who required specialized assistance. Deputies say hiking remains one of the state’s most popular outdoor activities, but even short outings can become dangerous without preparation. (Trailhead at Cape Lookout / Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

Hiking the Oregon coast should never be like one of those wacky surival game shows.

Make a Gear List
Deputies advise hikers to prepare a gear checklist before leaving home, whether the trip lasts a few hours or several days. Recommended items include water, a filtration method, rain gear and climate-appropriate clothing, a compass, a map, extra food, first-aid supplies, and a charged cell phone or radio with backup batteries.

Bring a Map
The Sheriff’s Office stresses that hikers should never rely solely on GPS devices, which can fail in areas with limited service or low battery power. Officials recommend carrying a physical map and knowing how to read it before entering the backcountry.

Hike During the Day
“Whenever possible, plan to hike during the day. It is easier to get lost in the dark and the area may be home to wild animals that are active at night,” LCSO said.

Know the Area
Before exploring unfamiliar terrain, hikers are urged to review regional information about wildlife, poisonous plants, hunting seasons, trail closures, emergency alerts, and weather conditions. Understanding local hazards can help prevent avoidable emergencies.

Oswald West State Park (Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

Check the Forecast for the Oregon Coast (or wherever you're going)
The Sheriff’s Office recommends monitoring the weather forecast while planning a hike and continuing to check it until departure. Weather affects gear needs and trail safety, especially during extreme heat, cold, rain, snow, or ice. Officials suggest contacting local parks departments for real-time trail conditions and postponing trips when weather is uncertain.

Be Confident, Not Cocky
Deputies remind hikers to be honest about their skill level, especially when joining more experienced friends or groups. Overestimating abilities can lead to injury or unsafe decisions.

Humbug Mountain

Tell Someone Before You Go
Officials emphasize the importance of sharing hiking plans with a trusted person, including the route and expected return time. If a hiker does not return as planned, that information can help Search and Rescue teams respond quickly. In emergencies, time is critical.

Saddle Mountain Rescue Needed USCG Helicopter, Several N. Oregon Coast Agencies - A complex 6.5 hours to rescue a stranded hiker

Stay Together
For group hikes, deputies recommend keeping a modest, steady pace so no one falls behind. Splitting into fast and slow groups can leave individuals isolated and more vulnerable if something goes wrong.

More safety information is available at www.lincolncountysheriff.net and on the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office – Oregon Facebook page.

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