Kings Mountain is located in the Oregon Coast Range. In order to reach the summit, hikers face a 2,546' elevation gain in 2.5 miles (5 miles RT). The moderately-rated trail is more rugged than Columbia River Gorge or Mount Hood trails, but the lower elevation makes it possible to hike in the winter.
I drove an hour west of town on Wednesday to find the trailhead along Highway 6--first one to start the trek at 9am. Buried deep in the Tillamook State Forest, a heavy fog cast an eery start to the morning. Surrounded by sword fern, alder trees, and Douglas-fir, the path follows a rushing creek as it gradually climbs from the forest floor. The young forest at the base of the mountain was planted after the 1945 Tillamook fire.
Before long, the incline steepens as the endless switchbacks set in.
Calves and quads on fire, I finally exited the woods at 3,000'. Kings Mountain features an abundance of springtime wildflowers in the meadow below the summit. Here I noted the view of Mt. Hood and Mt. Adams through the trees.
A summit register marks the elevation at 3,226'. The trail is adopted by the Mazamas, a local nonprofit that promotes climbing, responsible recreation, and conservation values through outdoor education, advocacy, and outreach.
I basked in the summer-like weather while taking in the panorama overlooking the Lester Creek valley. There's something about summit hikes and mountain views...
On my return journey, I passed a small handful of hikers making the slow climb up the mountain. I arrived back at the car around 12:15pm (3.5 hours RT). Though a very strenuous hike in itself, I am interested to try the Elk Mountain-Kings Mountain Loop next time!
