peace hike
The 16th Annual Peace Hike: A Commemoration of Resilience and Remembrance by View the Future
New Year’s Day 2026, Yachats, Oregon, will host the 16th Annual Peace Hike, a meaningful event that honors the legacy of the indigenous peoples who endured immense suffering under government-sponsored genocidal policies during the 19th century.
The Peace Hike commemorates the tragic history of the Alsea Subagency (1860–1875), highlighting the story of Amanda, a blind Native American (Coos) woman who was forcibly separated from her daughter and marched barefoot with other captives over 80 miles of rugged terrain to the Alsea Subagency prison camp in Yachats in 1864. This annual gathering serves as a solemn remembrance of those who lost their lives and a celebration of the resilience of their descendants, many of whom participate in the event each year.
A Time for Reflection and Education. Learn More at View the Future
Schedule of Events January 1, 2026
The day will be filled with ceremonies, reflections, and guided trail walks designed to honor the past and bring community together:
8:30 – 9 AM – Doors Open at the Commons– Welcome - Yellow Bear (Yachats /community Drum) story.
9:00 AM – Mayor’s welcome Greeting -Origin of Hike – Physical Safety - Emotional Support Instructions.
9:30 AM – Opening Prayer – Story Telling -Amanda Story.
10:30 AM – Ceremonial cedar distributed - a fire will be lit at the Commons Park - the longer 2.2-mile Amanda Trail hike commences.
10:45 AM – Shorter trail walk commences, followed by the offering of cedar to the fire.
12:00 PM – Fire closing at the Commons Park.
12:00 PM – Amanda Gathering Area ceremony begins with a second fire, and cedar offering, prayers, songs, and stories from Tribal members.
DURING THE ENTIRE CEREMONIES, PLEASE ADHERE TO NO PHOTOS, AUDIO NOR VIDEO