Saddle Mountain is a treat! It's about halfway between Portland and the coast off of Hwy 26. There are some picnic tables by the trailhead to eat before or after the hike. Pretty quick to the start of this hike, there is a side trail off to the right. It's short and enables you to get a non obstructed view of the mountain that you are about to climb. The hike weaves through woods but gives you break through views of the surrounding landscape. The grade is minimal to moderate until at the end where the last push is quite steep (but you can see the summit in clear view to motivate you). As you ascend, the views of Mt. Rainier and Mt St. Helens improve. At the top there is an outstanding 360 degree view of Mt Rainier, Mt Adams, Mt St Helens, Mt Hood and the Pacific Ocean. Yeah. Pretty great.
A nice option to complete this hike would be to leave Portland early, hike Saddle Mountain, and continue on 26 to the coast to camp. Hike out there the next day!
A nice option to complete this hike would be to leave Portland early, hike Saddle Mountain, and continue on 26 to the coast to camp. Hike out there the next day!
Mt Rainier
Aaron and Gretchen making the final leg to the summit.
Mt St Helens and Mt Adams
The Hike:
- Elevation: 1,600 feet
- Distance: 5. 2 miles RT
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