Right off Highway 6 and just an hour and a half drive out of Portland is the Kings Mountain trailhead found in the beautiful pines of the Tillamook State Forest. This 4.4-mile out-and-back climb is steep but pays off with a panoramic view of the surrounding forest and sprawling foothills.
When hiking this trail, you’ll be gaining 2,532 feet of elevation in just 2.2 miles, so Kings Mountain is a workout. The trail is in proper condition, but it is an uphill climb for the most part, so it is a challenge. I’d also highly recommend poles for your way down, just so you can add some stability to your knees and keep a lot of pressure off your joints. It takes around three to four hours to complete, and you’ll spend the majority of that time on the uphill climb.
Kings Mountain can be hiked during any time of the year, but be prepared for slick conditions if it’s raining or icy. Towards the top of the trail, you may see the accumulation of snow as you’ve gained enough elevation to reach a freezing point in altitude. It’s also recommended to hike this trail on a clear day, as fog and cloud cover can cause the view to be obstructed. You can also find a picnic table near the summit, so lunch can be accompanied by a great view.
The drive to the trailhead is very simple and scenic, as you take the U.S. Route 26 and then exit onto Highway 6 until you reach the trail. The parking lot for the trail is right off the highway, but it is small, so going early may ensure you a spot. Kings Mountain is considered a popular location, but activity typically depends on the weather. When I went, there was only one other person on the trail due to cloudy and somewhat dreary weather. You do not need any park passes to hike this trail, so Kings Mountain comes with no additional fees.
The view and hike through healthy forest growth wasn’t always the truth, as Tillamook has a long history of disastrous events. Starting in 1933, multiple periodic fires broke out along the Northern Oregon Coast Range, causing Tillamook Forest to be engulfed in flames. In six-year intervals, these fires would last until 1951. Upon investigation, it was found that these fires were most likely started by logging companies dragging downed Douglas firs across dead and dry brush, creating enough friction to spark a catastrophe.
Firefighters known as the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC), which was formed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, arrived on the scene and bravely tried to contain the blaze. Eventually, the last fire was diminished in 1951, and 355,000 acres of forest had burned. Tillamook was left as a pile of ash and charcoal.
Restoration efforts would begin between 1949 and 1972, and it would be one of the biggest projects in Oregon. The planting of 72 million seeds by the Oregon Department of Forestry would start the healing process of the Tillamook State Forest. With the help of regular civilians, helicopters dropping millions of seeds and time, the Tillamook Forest has rebounded to its former glory of lush pines and a functioning ecosystem.
While you’re trekking your way through this forest, know that it has taken decades of hard work and dedication to reclaim that original beauty you can see today.
Kings Mountain is a great hike that is full of rich history of restoration and amazing views of the Tillamook Forest wilderness. Towering pine trees and rocky cliff faces offer serenity all while giving you a workout if you’re up for the challenge. Kings Mountain is simply another great way to enjoy the Oregon wilderness just right outside of Portland.
