Kings Mountain & Elk Mountain

A 10.9 mile very difficult loop on the Wilson River in the Tillamook State Forest with 3,850 feet elevation gain and steep trails summiting both Kings and Elk Mountains. This hike is a great spring conditioning trip with summit views from Mount Hood to the ocean, wildflowers, and great nearby swimming holes in the Wilson River. With two trailheads and other trails, shorter or longer, out-and-back or loop trips are possible.

Getting There

Kings Mountain Trailhead

Drive OR-6 to milepost 25, 25 miles east of Tillamook, and turn north into the trailhead (650 ft).

Elk Creek Trailhead

Drive OR-6 to milepost 28, turn north onto Elk Creek Road, continue through the campground, and cross the bridge to the trailhead (1,150 ft).

On the Trail

Kings Mountain & Elk Mountain Loop

10.9 miles round trip, 3,850 feet of elevation gain, 3,226 ft high point

From the Kings Mountain Trailhead hike 3.5 miles east on the Wilson River Trail. Then climb steeply with 2,000 feet of elevation gain up 1.6 miles to the summit of Elk Mountain. Cross the an exposed narrow ridge that includes some scrambling and a rope for 3.3 miles to the Kings Mountain summit. Hike steeply down 2.5 miles to the Kings Mountain trailhead to complete the 10.9 mile loop. 

  • Suitable Activities: Day Hiking
  • Seasons: March, April, May, June, July, August, September, October, November
  • Weather: View weather forecast
  • Difficulty: Strenuous
  • Length: 10.9 mi
  • Elevation Gain: 3,850 ft
  • 3,226 ft
  • Land Manager: Oregon Department of Forestry
  • Parking Permit Required: None
  • Recommended Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Party Size: 12
  • Maximum Route/Place Capacity: 12
Map
  • see Land Manager
  • Tillamook State Forest
Activities
Trip Reports
Titles

This is a list of titles that represent the variations of trips you can take at this route/place. This includes side trips, extensions and peak combinations. Not seeing a title that fits your trip? Log in and send us updates, images, or resources.

  • Kings Mountain
  • Elk Mountain
  • Kings Mountain & Elk Mountain Loop
  • Elk Mountain & Elk Creek Loop
  • Wilson River Trail
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