Kings Mountain

Kings Mountain is an often overlooked but incredible hike on a clear day.  Although it is only 2.5 miles to the top of this 3,226-foot peak, the hike is quite steep in parts and the trail is challenging exercise.  The hike leads through a forest predominantly composed of Douglas fir, noble fir, red alder and a continuous sea of sword ferns.  From the summit you will be rewarded with eastern views of Mount Hood and western views of the Pacific Ocean.  What’s equally incredible is the diverse display of wildflowers, including Indian thistle, Columbia lily (tiger lily), spreading phlox, stonecrop, lupine, red sorrel and penstemon.

If you are hiking in warm temperatures, cool off in one of the many swimming holes along the Wilson River Trail just west of Kings Mountain.

Note:  You can also extend this hike by making a loop to Elk Mountain for a 10.9-mile traverse adventure or potential backpacking trip. See our map for trail information.

Oregon’s North Coast Forests

The Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests are 45 minutes outside of Portland’s backdoor and one of the state’s best keep secrets. But these forests also have a fraught history with logging, fires and more logging.  They are now 50 to 70 years into the recovery process and offer prime habitat for vibrant communities of fish and wildlife, as well as an immense array of recreational opportunities. The Wilson and Kilchis rivers host globally important runs of Chinook, chum, coho and steelhead. Both forests provide camping, biking, fishing, hunting and hiking grounds for thousands of Oregonians, and they also provide over 400,000 people with clean drinking water.

Wild Salmon Center is a founding member of the North Coast State Forest Coalition, a diverse group of over 100 businesses, governing bodies and nonprofits working to leverage public support to increase forest and streamside protection along the North Coast. These popular and biologically important areas deserve real protection. That’s why we’re asking state and federal leaders to protect 33,000 acres of land around the Wilson and Kilchis Rivers and another 8,000 acres around Kings Mountain.  It’s no easy task ensuring a future for these forests but this is where you can help.

Get Involved

Learn more about the North Coast State Forest Coalition, on their website. Join in the coalition by signing up for their newsletter and signing on to the latest action alerts to protect the Wilson/Kilchis and Kings Mountain.