The Ridgeline Trail traverses the southern end of Eugene with an almost connected 12 miles of trails through various parklands. It’s a great way to get out and explore right in town. The adventure can start at any one of eight trailheads, with the main attraction being the rocky outcropping of Spencer Butte – the city’s highest point at just over 2,000 feet.
The trail is popular spot for hiking and trail running. It’s a great place to view wildlife – deer, birds and other small animals can be seen year round.
In 1937, F. M. Wilkins, the chairman of the Eugene Park Commission, summed the city's future up best when he remarked that “Eugene boys and girls will be climbing Spencer Butte fifty and one hundred years from today, to be inspired by looking over a city built out to the very foot of the Butte.” The land was originally purchased back in 1940, and it was almost 3 miles from the city limits. The Ridgeline Trail System has been cared for and treasured by the citizens of Eugene ever since.
This somewhat steep section of the Ridgeline Trail takes you from a neighborhood area in south Eugene up toward the main section of the trial at the Fox Hollow Trailhead. While there isn’t much of a view, there are plenty of lush, beautiful plants and the occasional bird to spot. The trail is mostly shaded and easy to follow. It is very popular among hikers, mountain bikers and runners. For a longer hike, continue on the trail east toward the Dillard West trailhead or go west and head up toward Spencer Butte for a beautiful view of Eugene and the surrounding valley. Limited parking for this trailhead is on Martin Street, near a park and a connection to the Rexius Trail – a 3.5-mile running trail along Amazon Creek.
Trailheads (from west to east):
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