Few people were visiting the mystery ship - the shipwreck whose name is a mystery no more - on the North Spit on Wednesday. The U.S. Bureau of Land Management said Wednesday the wreck is the remains of the steam schooner George L. Olson, which went aground in 1944. - World Photo by Susan Chambers

The South Coast Striders will host a beach walk to the shipwrecks on the North Spit on Saturday, Feb. 23.

Hikers will go out and take a last look at the New Carissa before work begins to remove the wreck. The trip to there and back is 4.2 miles

The hike has been expanded to include a visit to the “mystery shipwreck.”  The total round trip distance to both wrecks is 7.76 miles.  Total trip time will be 4 hours.

Organizers stress this is a long hike in the sand that will be taxing on the feet and body. This area has lots of standing water, so waterproof boots will be needed. Hiking sticks and rain gear are recommended. Hikers also are reminded to bring water and something to eat.

Participants should meet at 10 a.m at the Bureau of Land Management’s Boat Ramp on TransPacific Lane. The walk will combine portions of the Dune Loop and Ocean Shore Loop. There will be sand walking, so the hike is rated moderate to difficult.

For more information, those interested can e-mail Don Luce at naturalworld@verizon.net or call him at 266-8201, anytime before 8 p.m. daily.