The short hike is 1.5 miles on a paved route and is easy with an interpreter. The long hike is a 3.5 loop around both the lakes and college and is a moderate hike. Directions to get to Empire Lakes are: From Hwy 101 in Coos Bay, go west on Newmark Avenue past Wal-Mart. Turn right on Hull St. and follow signs to lake. For more information, contact Don Luce at 541-266-8201 or e-mail at naturalworld@verizon.net or call Bay Area Hospital at 541-269-8430.