Plan your perfect hike with trails to lakes, dunes, and beaches—plus easy access to coffee, chowder, and shopping in Old Town.
Nestled along Oregon's rugged coastline, Florence invites adventurers to explore its diverse hiking trails, from ancient forests with giant trees and cascading waterfalls to serene lakeside strolls, expansive dunes, pristine beaches, and an opportunity to spot wildlife around nearly every turn. Lace up your hiking boots, dress seasonally, and embark on an unforgettable journey through Oregon's Coastal Playground. For a more general overview of outdoor recreation in and around Florence, look here.
Some of our favorite hikes nearby (all within about 15 miles) include the following:
Sweet Creek Falls Trail
Only about 15 miles from Historic Old Town Florence, through the idyllic coastal foothill village of Mapleton (turn south onto Sweet Creek Road at the east end of the town’s bridge), the Sweet Creek Falls Trail offers a picturesque hike through lush, ancient forests. This 2.2-mile round-trip trail follows alongside Sweet Creek, revealing a series of enchanting waterfalls that crescendo at the 20-foot Sweet Creek Falls. The trail's gentle upstream slope (and downstream return) makes it accessible for hikers of all ages and skill levels, offering ample photo ops and opportunities to pause and soak in the tranquil beauty of the moss-draped trees, babbling waters, and fern-lined paths. Spring brings out beautiful trailside wildflowers, and winter fills the creek with dramatic rushing waters.
Hobbit Beach Trail
For a whimsical, almost otherworldly coastal experience, head approximately 13 miles north of Florence (milepost 177 on Highway 101) to the Hobbit Beach Trailhead. This 1-mile trail descends through a tunnel of dense vegetation, reminiscent of a scene from a fantasy novel, before opening onto the secluded Hobbit Beach. The pristine sands and dramatic ocean vistas make it an ideal spot for a leisurely beach stroll or a peaceful picnic. Consider bringing along supplies for making s’mores—an Oregon Coast campfire tradition! An adjoining trail leads to several elevated beach overlooks on the way to the bluff above the Heceta Head Lighthouse—one of the most photographed in the world! The trail leads directly to the lighthouse too…and down to the beautiful beach below. Pair this hike with the Washburne Valley Trail through Washburne State Park to China Creek Loop at the park’s northern edge where you can rejoin the beach.
Oregon Dunes Loop Trail
South of Florence, the Oregon Dunes Loop Trail provides an immersive experience within the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This 2-mile loop traverses diverse landscapes, from sandy dunes to coastal forests, and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The trail is well-marked and suitable for most hikers and offers accessible viewing platforms near the trailhead. Click here for more on our coastal dunes.
John Dellenback Dunes Trail
Beginning in a conifer forest, this trail leads you through the dunes and ends at the ocean beach. Choose from a somewhat difficult 2.7-mile trek to the beach over soft, shifting sand or an easy self-guided interpretive loop. The open sand is unmarked due to constantly changing conditions. Hikers are advised to climb the tallest dune to get their bearings and to use their mobile device's built-in GPS to track their location on the map. Download the geospatial PDF and install an app that reads geospatial PDFs—or bring out your inner boy/girl scout and carry your trusty compass. This trailhead is on the west side of the highway near milepost 222. Before you go, look up restrictions related to the snowy plover (a local endangered bird that nests on the dunes) so you don’t disturb the vulnerable new chicks.
For more about enjoying our local dunes, see this page.
Valley Trail in Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park
Just 3 miles south of Florence, Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park boasts the Valley Trail, a 6-mile network winding through coastal forests and around the picturesque Cleawox and Woahink Lakes. Hikers can enjoy the serene ambiance of the lakes, with opportunities for swimming, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water's edge. The park's extensive trail system allows for customizable hikes, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. For more information, visit with the friendly park ranger/hosts. This is also a great destination for kayakers. Learn more from our Kayaking Blog.
Lilly Lake Trail
There's a popular loop trail about 8 miles north of town called the Lily Lake Trail (also known as Lily Lake Loop Trail #1397) that loops around Lily Lake, a dune lake, and coastal forest, near the Baker Beach trailhead (milepost 182). This flat sandy trail offers lake access and connects to the Baker Beach Trail, which is popular with horseback riders and the friendly horses of nearby C&M Stables. Nearby, you will find the mile-long Berry Creek Trail that parallels the Lily Lake Trail, another sandy trail between the forest and dunes near Berry Creek.
Carnivorous Plants!
Meet Oregon’s highly unusual bug-eating plants, the Cobra Lillies, at Darlingtonia State Natural Site. You can explore an Oregon coastal bog from the dry safety of an elevated boardwalk and meet these fascinating plants up close. Follow the signage from Highway 101 onto Mercer Lake Road (near milepost 185) just north of Florence. It's a short and educational walk, perfect for families.
Before and After Your Hike
No visit to Florence is complete without exploring the charming Historic Old Town. Situated along the Siuslaw River, this vibrant district offers an array of dining options to satisfy your post-hike appetite. Start your day with freshly brewed coffee and a pastry at River Roasters, a local favorite known for its cozy atmosphere and delectable treats.
After your hike, indulge in a well-deserved meal at one of Old Town's renowned restaurants. The Waterfront Depot Restaurant offers a delightful menu featuring fresh seafood and innovative dishes, all set within a historic railroad depot overlooking the river. For award-winning crab chowder, visit Novelli’s on the docks. For something a little more formal, try The Greenroom. For a more casual dining experience, try the Firehouse, Beachcomber Pub & Grill, or Homegrown Public House. Our Restaurant Page will guide you to a full menu of local, international, Pacific Northwest fusion, and seafood specialists, along with fulfilling breakfast options.
As you wander through Old Town, take time to browse the quaint shops, fascinating art galleries, and boutiques that line the streets, offering a perfect blend of coastal charm and cultural flair. History buffs will love Florence’s Siuslaw Pioneer Museum and Oregon Coast Military Museum.
Florence, Oregon, seamlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural experiences and flavorful ocean- and farm-to-table dining making it an ideal destination for hikers and explorers alike. So, grab your gear and set out to discover the captivating trails and vibrant community that define Oregon’s Coastal Playground.
