Today brought a fairly solid marine layer of clouds to Oregon’s North Coast. Temperatures were still in the 60s but if you were hoping for sun, it never made it. Feeling like I needed some Vitamin D to kick off the week, I packed my family in the car and headed 21 miles east of Seaside to Saddle Mountain State Park. It’s an easy drive, and once you turn off of Highway 26 (right about MP 10), you’ll enjoy seven miles of beautiful forestry before reaching the Saddle Mountain trailhead.

The area itself allows for overnight camping and has ample parking for those simply wishing to take a short hike or the longer hike that will allow you to summit Saddle Mountain. With two young children in tow, we were there to keep it simple and safe while enjoying the natural beauty and pleasant temperatures.

Our hike was a short one (a little over a 1/4-mile each way) and did include a few steep spots where sturdy shoes are a must but the small steeps are well worth the effort. Once on the trail, turn right at the Humbug Mountain viewpoint sign. Your journey to some amazing views (including the one captured here) and ample sunshine are just 10-15 minutes away.