South Coast Striders Hike Report

By Karin Thomas & Zoe Sweet

The hike was more than we expected.  Millicoma Marsh is a pleasant adventure through one of the Coos Estuary's few remaining salt marshes.  At the start of the walk we were ready for any weather changes when it started to rain with a steady downfall that lasted about 15 minutes.  Most of the 32 hikers had rain gear and hiking boots on and were happy to proceed down the trail with our hike guide, John Bragg.  We were also excited to learn that Jamie Fereday, a local teacher, was joining us.  Jamie has extensive knowledge about the Millicoma Marsh from his vast studies and first hand observation of this area.  He shared his information about this wetland ecosystem which helped us to learn more about this beautiful area.

The trail meanders through fresh and saltwater marshes.  It was very calming to see shorebirds, waterfowl, and other wildlife on the trail.  We hiked to a viewing deck with an excellent view of the salt marsh and the surrounding area.  From this platform we could see an otter who entertained us by bopping up and down in the water.  There was a long debate trying to determine if this was a beaver or an otter.  But when he flipped out of the water the tail gave his identification away.

All in all, it was a nice hike, with good conversation, and friendly people!