A bridge crosses Eel Creek from the parking area.
The dedicated trailhead is just south of Eel Creek Campground.
John Dellenbeck Trail.
Initially the trail is on a firm base and surrounded by a healthy representation of Oregon Coastal flora.
The John Dellenback Trail suddenly leads into the dunes.
This section of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area is off-limits to motorized vehicles, so untracked vistas are plentiful.
John Dellenback Trail, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.
Posts with blue rings mark the route. In a fog, it would be difficult to see these posts, and wayfinding would depend on navigational tools.
The trail stays just north of the "tree island" on the left.
As the trail approaches the ocean, it returns to the vegitated environment seen at the beginning of the hike.
The trail tunnels through a band of incredibly thick forest.
At last, the Pacific. Note that dogs (and kites) are not allowed on the beach to protect the snowy plover.
Looking north toward the Umpqua River's south jetty.
The view south toward Cape Arago State Park.
A boardwalk leads over marshy areas near the beach.
John Dellenback Trail, Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.