Take a Hike… to Saddle Mountain

 

 

If you’re an Oregonian, you owe yourself this classic hike. Saddle Mountain is steep, difficult, and often exposed, but the incredible views, rare wildflowers, and a sweet sense of accomplishment when you reach the top more than compensate for the burning in your thighs.

 

At 3,283 feet, Saddle Mountain is the highest peak on the north coast and towers above forested foothills and patchy clear cuts. On a clear day, the 360 degree view sweeps from Tillamook Head, across Astoria, and north over the Columbia estuary. Cascade volcanoes dot the horizon behind you. The 3-mile trail climbs 1,600 feet through an island ecosystem left behind by retreating glaciers - many of the plants and flowers you’ll see are rare or unique to the mountain.

 

 

Before you hit the trail, it’s a good idea to stretch, use the public restroom, and fill up on water - there’s none available on the trail, which weaves and switch-backs through forests of birch, cedar, hemlock, and fir. About half-way up, the trail begins to open up with increasingly spectacular views. As you pass below the lower peak, there’s a picnic table and lean-to that provides a shady resting spot before the final push. Shortly after, you’ll come to the open saddle, which isn’t very wide and is reinforced with wooden beams and gravel held in place by fencing. The peak looms above you, and although it isn’t as far as it looks, it is steep. In some places, maintenance crews have strung steel cable along parts of the trail. Take a break when you need it and suck in the views. The last 300 feet or so can be a scramble; hiking boots or shoes are strongly advised.

 

 

The large summit is surrounded by railing and can accommodate quite a few people. It can be windy, and the clouds can envelope you at any time, but what a panorama!

 

This hike has been rated anything from difficult to challenging to strenuous. In my opinion, it’s not that bad. If you’re in moderate shape, don’t push yourself too hard, and take time to appreciate the vistas, you’ll get to the top - and down again - with a smile on your face and a snapshot of yourself in all your summit glory.

 

To get to Saddle Mountain, take Highway 26 to the turn-off 8 miles east of the Necanicum Junction with Highway 53. Follow the road to the parking lot and trailhead. May is a particularly good month to see the wildflower display and stand a chance at clear weather.

 

Article & Images By Jason Weeks, Borrowed Times