Portland: Saddle Mountain

This aggressive 6-mile climb leads to the highest point in the Coast Ranges. Shaded Alder groves, wildflower meadows, and views of volcanoes and the Pacific Ocean await.

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Trail Facts

  • Distance: 2.9

Waypoints

SMT001

Location: 45.9621658325195, -123.689002990723

Trailhead on S side of parking lot; go L @ Y

SMT002

Location: 45.9610824584961, -123.687400817871

Turn R for spur trail to mtn. viewpoint; return

SMT003

Location: 45.9609336853027, -123.685150146484

Bridge crosses small creek lined by alder groves

SMT004

Location: 45.9609336853027, -123.683647155762

First great view of the valley below

SMT005

Location: 45.9618148803711, -123.684120178223

Reach a flat bench after 1,000-ft. climb; cherish coastline views before ascending again

SMT006

Location: 45.9625015258789, -123.684669494629

Numerous side trails; stay on main trail

SMT007

Location: 45.9635162353516, -123.68383026123

Emerge from forest for stellar coastal views

SMT008

Location: 45.9657669067383, -123.679481506348

Picnic table and lean-to offer a lunch spot; last shade before climb to summit

SMT009

Location: 45.9662818908691, -123.68286895752

A viewing deck marks the saddle midpoint; pause before the short but tough scramble to summit

SMT010

Location: 45.969066619873, -123.685333251953

Saddle Mtn. Summit (3,283 ft.); views of Coast Ranges, Pacific Ocean, and 4 volcanic peaks–Rainier, Adams, St. Helens, and Mt. Hood; retrace steps to return to trailhead

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