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