Oregon Sand Dunes: Where the Coast Meets Adventure

Just a short drive, about 800 miles, from Ogden, Utah, in the Pacific Northwest, you'll find the Oregon Sand Dunes, one of our crew's favorite places to ride. Stretching nearly 40 miles from the town of Florence south to Coos Bay, these incredible dunes were formed over thousands of years as sand from the Pacific Ocean was carried inland by the wind. Some of the dunes rise as high as 500 feet above sea level, creating a truly one-of-a-kind landscape.

What makes the Oregon Sand Dunes so unique is the way the sand weaves between the ocean, evergreen forests, rivers, and wetlands. The contrast between towering dunes and lash pine trees creates scenery unlike anywhere else in the United States. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie looking for your next ride or someone who simply loves being outdoors, the Oregon Sand Dunes offer unforgettable views and experiences.

The riding opportunities are endless. ATVs, UTVs, dune buggies, and dirt bikes all have a place here. There are wide-open flats that are perfect for beginners learning the basics, along with steep hill climbs and narrow trails winding through the pines that will challenge even the most experienced riders. No matter your skill level, there's terrain that will keep you coming back for more.

One of the best parts of riding here is that, in certain areas, you can take your machine right onto the beach. Pull up near the shoreline for a picnic, stroll along the sand collecting seashells, or simply enjoy the sound of waves. Even on the hottest summer days, the Pacific Ocean stays refreshingly cold, if you're brave enough jump in.

Most mornings, and sometimes throughout the day, a cool ocean mist rolls across the dunes. It can feel like a light rain even though it's only fog. If you're camping, we recommend covering your machines and storing anything you don't want damp. The closer you are to the shoreline, the thicker the marine layer tends to be.

The adventure doesn't stop with riding. Winchester Bay, one of our favorite coastal towns, is also known for incredible fishing and crabbing. From many campgrounds, you can walk, bike, or longboard into town to browse local shops, grab ice cream, or stop by one of the local restaurants. One of our favorite traditions is buying bait from a local tackle shop, heading out to the large wooden dock, and dropping crab pots into the bay. There's nothing quite like pulling up a pot full of fresh crab to enjoy for dinner. Just be sure to check the local fishing and crabbing regulations before heading out.

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We grew up making summer trips to the Oregon Sand Dunes with our families, spending our days riding and evenings crabbing along the coast. These days, we still make the trip, often for UTV Takeover events held nearby. While the riding is definitely more peaceful when there isn't an event filling the dunes, it's still an incredible experience to watch the racing and enjoy the coastal atmosphere. As the sun sets over the dunes and the engines finally quiet down, it's easy to understand why this place keeps calling us back year after year.

-The Whiskey Throttle Team