N. Oregon Coast Crews Ask for Help: Volunteers Needed for Oceanside Stairway Fix

Published 09/14/25 at 5:25 p.m.
By Oregon Coast Beach Connection Staff

(Oceanside, Oregon) - There's a call out for volunteers on the north Oregon coast, a call to help out a much-needed beach access stairway. The steps going down to Short Beach Trail in Oceanside are undergoing a major rebuild, and organizers say more hands are needed to finish the job. (Photo Oregon Coast Beach Connection)

The Oceanside Action Partnership has teamed up with Trailkeepers of Oregon, Tillamook Coast Visitors Association, Oregon Parks and Recreation, Netarts-Oceanside Fire District, Friends of Netarts Bay, and local volunteers to replace the aging stairs that have deteriorated over time.

And they need you.

Work days are scheduled for September 12, 13, 17, 18, 25, 26, 27, 30 and October 1. Volunteers will help remove the old structure and install new stairs under the guidance of experienced trail crews. No prior experience is required.

“Whether you're new to trail work or a seasoned volunteer, this is a great chance to get involved, learn new skills, and help keep Tillamook Coast trails accessible,” said Dan Haag of Tillamook Coast Visitors Association.

Courtesy TKO

Bruce Jaeger with Oceanside Action Partnership said the trail was formally closed a few years ago and labeled “use at your own risk” after the original stairs began to fail. “We’ve had people slipping, falling, and getting injured. It was clear something had to be done,” he said.

Recent work has involved two specialized crews: one focused on demolition, the other on construction. Each were using a zipline system to move materials in and out of the site.

“We’ve had volunteers hauling lumber, swinging sledgehammers, and navigating steep terrain. It’s been a real community effort,” said TKO crew lead Jamie Dawson.

One volunteer described the experience as “like being on an HGTV episode, but with more mud and fewer camera crews.”

Courtesy TKO

The original stairway was built around the year 2000 by a small group of volunteers using donated materials.

“Local verbal history is the trail was completed by a small group of volunteers 25 years ago,” Jaeger added. “They used whatever materials they had available and donated to complete the project.”

Locals felt compelled to come together and get rid of the dangers at the only entrance to Short Beach, which wasn't even an entrance as much as a cliff with a spot or two that was somewhat climbable. That translated to simply a very steep chunk of trail that easily became slippery as hell. Tourists were getting injured all the time.

It truly was harrowing – as some at Oregon Coast Beach Connection can attest to.

The result was a leg cramp-inducer, but a much safer route in and out. The stairway was also aesthetically pleasing and blended exceptionally well with the lush, green surroundings. There were a couple of platform areas to rest a bit and take in the view.

There is no set completion date, but organizers estimate the project is about halfway done. Once finished, the new stairway will restore safe access to one of the region’s most scenic and secluded beaches.

To sign up for a volunteer shift, visit trailkeepersoforegon.org/events.

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