Go take a hike — with Forest Service ranger

YACHATS — EcoTreks are back at Cape Perpetua Scenic Area. The program takes hikers along paths between towering trees, offering stunning ocean views in the company of a field ranger guide.

Hikes provide participants with an opportunity to delve deep into topics like coastal rainforest ecology, ethnobotany, cultural history, and more.

Join U.S. Forest Service field rangers Saturdays at 1 p.m., Aug. 25, and Sept. 1, for guided EcoTreks on the Cape Perpetua trails.

“EcoTreks are great for hikers who want a more in-depth nature experience and the opportunity to really connect with this special place,” said Carol Daviscourt, Siuslaw National Forest field ranger. “Having a field ranger on-hand can make for a really rich, fun, memorable summer adventure.”

EcoTreks take place on a number of trails in the Cape Perpetua Scenic area, and range in difficulty from easy and level to moderate with a steep grade. All EcoTreks depart from the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center at 1 p.m., and last an average of two hours.

More information about specific EcoTreks, including trail lengths and topics, is available at the Visitor Center. Call in advance for details about the particular EcoTreks you would like to attend: advance reservations through the Visitor Center are recommended.

“This program was very popular last year.” said Daviscourt, “The EcoTreks are a lot of fun for forest visitors, and they give the Forest Service a chance to showcase why this place matters and what makes it really special.”

The guided hikes are free, although a valid federal recreation pass is required within the scenic area. Passes can be obtained at the Cape Perpetua Visitor Center, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during summer months.



For the complete article see the 08-15-2012 issue.

Click here to purchase an electronic version of the 08-15-2012 paper.

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