Saturday, June 7, 2014

Saddle Mountain and Tillamook Head 7 June 2014

Both of these State Parks have been on my list for some time.  Today was the day.  I arrived at Saddle Mountain about 9:45a and there were about 10 cars in the lot.  It is only a 5.2 mile hike, but has 1620 ft gain.  Lots of tourists hike it too.  The state has covered the trail with wire on the steep rocky parts to keep people from slipping.  Cables have been installed as well, so you can hang on.  And at the top, there is a railing all around the flat summit.
There were plenty of flowers and the sunshine was abundant.  The forest at the start of the trail was quite lush and beautiful as well.

Map link for Saddle Mtn:  Saddle Mountain


first view of the destination










from the saddle

first view of final ascent

lunch spot was on this outcropping as the summit was "full"

I loved this section of the forest - sunlight on the carpet of oxalis

Next I drove 30 min over to Tillamook Head and Ecola State Park.  I will have to spend more time there.  I walked a mile and a half and had to turn around to get back home.  Very pretty and lots of scenic views of lovely beaches.

Map link for Ecola State Park:  Ecola State Park

looking south

on the trail looking north

from the trail looking south


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