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John Topits Park loop

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Hiking trails & Routes

John Topits Park loop

Easy

5.0

(8243)

16,266

hikers

John Topits Park loop

Q: Where can I park to access the John Topits Park loop?

Parking is readily available at John Topits Park in Coos Bay. The park's convenient location, including being across from a Walmart, makes it easily accessible for visitors.

Q: Is the John Topits Park loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails at John Topits Park are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and local wildlife.

Q: What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The John Topits Park loop is enjoyable year-round. However, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with diverse bird and waterfowl species often more active. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather.

Q: Are there any fees or permits required to hike in John Topits Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access John Topits Park or hike its trails. It's a public park, freely accessible to all visitors. For specific fishing regulations, you might need an Oregon fishing license.

Q: What is the terrain like on the John Topits Park loop?

The terrain on this loop is generally easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Many sections are paved, with some areas also featuring gravel and dirt paths. The overall elevation gain is minimal, contributing to its accessibility.

Q: How long does it typically take to complete the John Topits Park loop?

The John Topits Park loop is approximately 3.3 km (2 miles) long and typically takes about 50 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

Q: What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see along the way?

You'll enjoy picturesque views centered around the serene Upper Empire Lake and Lower Empire Lake . The park features numerous viewing points, often with benches, surrounded by protected coastal dunes and lush forests. Keep an eye out for diverse birds and waterfowl, and interesting elements like old trees within the lake.

Q: Is the John Topits Park loop suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! This loop is considered very family-friendly due to its easy terrain, mostly paved surfaces, and minimal elevation changes. The park also features a children's play area, making it a great destination for families.

Q: What other activities can I do at John Topits Park?

Beyond hiking, the lakes are popular for kayaking and canoeing, as gas-powered boats are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful environment. Fishing is also common, with bass, bluegill, perch, and catfish found in the lakes. The park also has a children's play area and is great for jogging and running.

Q: Does this loop connect to other trails?

Yes, the John Topits Park trail system connects to the Southwestern Oregon Community College's trails, offering expanded exploration opportunities. Additionally, sections of this route overlap with the official Oregon Coast Trail and the Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway.

00:50

3.26km

10m

Hiking

The John Topits Park loop offers a peaceful escape into nature, winding through lush forests and along the tranquil shores of Upper and Lower Empire Lakes. This easy 2.0-mile (3.3 km) hike, with just 43 feet (13 metres) of elevation gain, takes around 50 minutes, making it ideal for a relaxing outing. You'll find a mix of paved and gravel paths, perfect for a leisurely walk while observing the diverse birdlife and water lilies.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with ample parking available, even across from a Walmart, and no permits or fees required. While the trail is easy and well-maintained, be aware that large puddles can form during the wet season. This family-friendly route is suitable for all ages and offers a quick, accessible way to enjoy the outdoors.

Beyond hiking, John Topits Park is a 120-acre haven for nature enthusiasts, providing year-round opportunities for recreation like kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. The park's focus on the serene Upper and Lower Empire Lakes makes it a notable natural feature within the Coos Bay area, offering a quiet retreat with plenty of viewing points and benches.

Last updated: June 9, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

385 m

Upper Empire Lake

Highlight • Lake

Offering an effortless opportunity to reel in a satisfying catch for dinner. The Upper Empire Lake is regularly stocked with hatchery rainbow trout, creating ideal conditions for fishing from late winter to spring, with various fish species present year-round.

Tip by

2.94 km

Lower Empire Lake

Highlight • Lake

In any city, Empire Lakes would be a treasure, and Coos Bay is fortunate to call it home. With a diverse population of fish and abundant birdlife, these lakes, complete with a beach and boat ramp, offer a serene escape for fishing or leisurely paddling.

Tip by

3.26 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

3.20 km

< 100 m

Surfaces

3.20 km

< 100 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Weather

Today

Tuesday 30 June

19°C

12°C

0 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 27.0 km/h

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I park to access the John Topits Park loop?

Parking is readily available at John Topits Park in Coos Bay. The park's convenient location, including being across from a Walmart, makes it easily accessible for visitors.

Is the John Topits Park loop dog-friendly?

Yes, the trails at John Topits Park are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all park visitors and local wildlife.

What is the best time of year to hike this loop?

The John Topits Park loop is enjoyable year-round. However, spring and fall offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with diverse bird and waterfowl species often more active. Summer is also popular, but be prepared for potentially warmer weather.

Are there any fees or permits required to hike in John Topits Park?

No, there are no entrance fees or permits required to access John Topits Park or hike its trails. It's a public park, freely accessible to all visitors. For specific fishing regulations, you might need an Oregon fishing license.

What is the terrain like on the John Topits Park loop?

The terrain on this loop is generally easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Many sections are paved, with some areas also featuring gravel and dirt paths. The overall elevation gain is minimal, contributing to its accessibility.

How long does it typically take to complete the John Topits Park loop?

The John Topits Park loop is approximately 3.3 km (2 miles) long and typically takes about 50 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace. This duration can vary depending on your speed and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery.

What natural features or viewpoints can I expect to see along the way?

You'll enjoy picturesque views centered around the serene Upper Empire Lake and Lower Empire Lake. The park features numerous viewing points, often with benches, surrounded by protected coastal dunes and lush forests. Keep an eye out for diverse birds and waterfowl, and interesting elements like old trees within the lake.

Is the John Topits Park loop suitable for families with children?

Absolutely! This loop is considered very family-friendly due to its easy terrain, mostly paved surfaces, and minimal elevation changes. The park also features a children's play area, making it a great destination for families.

What other activities can I do at John Topits Park?

Beyond hiking, the lakes are popular for kayaking and canoeing, as gas-powered boats are prohibited, ensuring a peaceful environment. Fishing is also common, with bass, bluegill, perch, and catfish found in the lakes. The park also has a children's play area and is great for jogging and running.

Does this loop connect to other trails?

Yes, the John Topits Park trail system connects to the Southwestern Oregon Community College's trails, offering expanded exploration opportunities. Additionally, sections of this route overlap with the official Oregon Coast Trail and the Oregon Coast Scenic Bikeway.

Are there amenities like restrooms or cafes nearby?

While specific amenities like restrooms directly on the trail are not detailed, the park's convenient location across from a Walmart suggests nearby facilities. For cafes and pubs, you'll find options in the surrounding Coos Bay area.