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View north from atop Kings Mountain

Fairly steep climbing eventually leads you to a picnic table right beside the trail, just 0.3 mile from the top. You can stop here for a rest, but save your longer lunch break for the very top, where the view is far superior. The final climb to the summit is quite steep in some sections, with loose gravel that can be a little dangerous on the way back down. On the plus side, most of the final 0.2 mile is a joyous route through open meadows that are ablaze with wildflowers in early June.

Very adventurous hikers can continue this hike over the rugged path that connects Kings Mountain with Elk Mountain to the east. For a description of this difficult route, see ssss1.

TRIP 11 Upper Wilson River Trail

Distance 3.4 miles, Point-to-point Elevation Gain 700 feet Hiking Time 1½ hours Optional Map Tillamook State Forest Usually Open All year (except during winter storms) Best Times April to June and mid- to late October Trail Use Dogs OK, mountain biking Agency Forest Grove District, Tillamook State Forest Difficulty Moderate Note Good in cloudy weather

HIGHLIGHTS This path provides a welcome link allowing hikers to make a challenging loop hike that connects Kings and Elk mountains (ssss1 and ssss1). As a separate hike, this lower-elevation trail is a pleasant leg-stretcher with attractive forests, several splashing creeks, and some nice viewpoints. Since it is at such a low elevation, this trail provides a nice alternative for hikers looking for a scenic place to walk in early spring or even midwinter, although the path will be muddy then.