Читать книгу Afoot and Afield: Portland/Vancouver. A Comprehensive Hiking Guide онлайн

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There are two main access roads into the northern Coast Range. From Portland, go about 20 miles northwest on U.S. Highway 26, better known as the Sunset Highway, to a road split. The main highway continues straight (northwest) toward the popular coastal resorts of Seaside and Cannon Beach. Along the way this highway provides access to the spectacular trail up Saddle Mountain and to several exciting new trails in the Clatsop State Forest. Turning left (southwest) at the road split, onto State Highway 6, gains you access to the much greater number of scenic trails in the Tillamook State Forest.

Saddle Mountain from upper viewpoint

TRIP 1 Gnat Creek

Distance 2.5 miles, Out-and-back Elevation Gain 150 feet Hiking Time 2 hours Optional Map USGS Knappa, OR; Cathlamet, WA (trail not shown) Usually Open All year Best Time Any Trail Use Good for kids, dogs OK, fishing Agency Clatsop State Forest Difficulty Easy Note Good in cloudy weather

HIGHLIGHTS This recently completed trail makes for an enjoyable and relatively easy leg-stretcher for families driving to Astoria. With the sounds of nearby traffic on U.S. Highway 30, the hike is not a wilderness experience, but the dense forest and clear stream are a beautiful and soothing change of pace. In addition, the fish hatchery at trail’s end is educational and entertaining for both young and old.