In a secluded area along the Oregon Coast sits one of the newest additions to the Oregon State Parks system. Sitka Sedge State Natural Area lies along the Sand Lake Estuary, just north of Pacific City, offering scenic views, quiet trails, and peaceful surroundings.

The area around Sitka Sedge was historically inhabited by the Nestucca Band of Tillamook Indians. Their descendants are now members of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians and the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, both of which have historical ties to the area. The Sand Lake Estuary, which borders Sitka Sedge, is one of only a handful of natural estuaries remaining in Oregon. This means it is one of the few places where the surrounding landscape has remained largely undeveloped. A dike is one of the only developed features in the area.

Before becoming Sitka Sedge State Natural Area, the land was known as Beltz Farm, or the Beltz Property. It almost didn’t remain the serene natural area it is today. In the early 2000s, the landowner attempted to develop the property into a resort with a golf course, but the project never came to fruition. Over the following years, several conservation organizations and landowners attempted to purchase the property, but the sales fell through. It wasn’t until 2014 that Ecotrust Forest Management was able to finalize the purchase. The property was eventually sold to Oregon State Parks.

Oregon State Parks began preparing the property for public recreation while preserving its rustic, natural character. The existing dike was left in place to help prevent flooding in the nearby community of Tierra Del Mar. Roughly 100 acres of pasture and forest lie on the east side of Sand Lake Road, while approximately 250 acres are located on the west side. It is the western portion of the park that is accessible to the public. Sitka Sedge State Natural Area officially opened on June 2, 2018.

The park features three miles of trails for hikers to enjoy. With very little elevation gain, the trails offer accessible opportunities for visitors of many abilities. Wildlife viewing areas are scattered throughout the trail system, providing peaceful places to pause and take in the surrounding landscape. The first half-mile from the parking lot follows the Beltz Dike Trail, an ADA-accessible route with two viewing areas. Beyond this section, two loop trails offer further exploration and access to the beach.

The trails are also an excellent opportunity for birders to look for their favorite Oregon Coast birds. With great blue herons, egrets, and many other species in the area, visitors are bound to spot something memorable. Native plants are abundant as well, including salal, evergreen huckleberry, Sitka spruce, and more. Hikers visiting in the right season may even find trillium in bloom. Keep an eye out for larger wildlife, too. Local elk herds are known to visit the area, both along the hiking trails and on the eastern side of the park.

Located just 5 to 10 minutes from Pacific City and Tierra del Mar, Sitka Sedge is the perfect place for visitors to immerse themselves in nature while still enjoying the comforts and conveniences of nearby communities.

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