About Horse Creek Trail North
Horse Creek Trail North is a easy hiking trail near Tidewater in Lincoln County, Oregon.. The surface is ground. Managed by United States Forest Service. Trail data is sourced from OpenStreetMap.
⚠ Note from contributors: This is incorrectly indicated as being "Drift Creek Trail" in some resources as well as on site. A response to a medical emergency on this trail was significantly delayed due to confusion between this trail and the Drift Creek Falls Trail in Lincoln City.
What “Easy” Means
Gentle terrain, well-marked. Suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
Difficulty is derived from OpenStreetMap’s Swiss Alpine Club (SAC) hiking scale, trail visibility, surface, distance, and elevation gain. Always verify current conditions before heading out.
What to Pack & Wear
Personalised to this trail’s length, elevation, difficulty, and the live forecast.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Moisture-wicking T-shirt
Light color, breathable.
- 🩳
Lightweight shorts or pants
Quick-dry preferred — sweat dries fast.
- 🧢
Brimmed sun hat
Better than a cap for back-of-neck protection.
- 🥾
Trail runners
Breathable mesh uppers.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Trail Safety in Oregon
Trail conditions in Oregon change with weather, season, and fire activity. Closures, washouts, and rerouting are common. Before heading out:
- Check with the land manager for current conditions and closures
- Tell someone your plan and expected return time
- Know your turn-around limits — conditions can change fast
- Carry the 10 essentials: water, food, navigation, first aid, light, fire, shelter, knife, sun protection, extra clothes
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard is Horse Creek Trail North?
Horse Creek Trail North is rated Easy. Suitable for most hikers including families.
Can I ride a bike on Horse Creek Trail North?
No — this trail is closed to bicycles.
Are horses allowed on Horse Creek Trail North?
Yes — horseback riding is permitted.
What is the trail surface on Horse Creek Trail North?
The surface is ground. Natural surface — sturdy footwear recommended; can be muddy after rain.
When is the best time to hike Horse Creek Trail North?
Oregon has trail conditions that vary by season. Spring and fall usually offer the best mix of temperature and trail conditions. Check the 5-day forecast above for current outlook. Always verify trail status (closures, washouts, fire restrictions) with the local land manager before going.
Who manages Horse Creek Trail North?
Horse Creek Trail North is managed by United States Forest Service as part of the US:NFST:Siuslaw network. Check the operator’s website for current permits, fees, and restrictions.
References & Maps
