Saddle Moutnain State Park: Saddle Mountian

     As the title indicates, my most recent hike took me to Saddle Mountain in Saddle Mountain State Park. I was very excited to embark on this particular hike because of the fact that it was a mountain that I was going to conquer. For some reason hiking mountains is much more of a thrill for me then it is most normal folks. But, I am not normal folks. Another reason why I was excited was that Saddle Mountain is one of the highest peaks in Oregon's Northern Coastal Mountain Range. That in itself is pretty amazing!

Saddle Mountain

     Anyway, Saddle Mountain State Park was a bit of a drive for me and my friend who accompanied me on this and last month's hikes. The drive there was a about 117 miles from Salem, Oregon and clocked at 2 hours and 30 minutes. If you ever decide to go on a hike who's trial head is far from you live, always remember to bring plenty of food for the ride there (and the hike), music, and other things to keep yourself occupied. Luckily my friend and I had plenty to keep us sane along the way. Plus it always helps to know where you are going. So it might be a good idea to carry a map of the area you plan on going with you. And if you have one of those fancy smart phones with a GPS and whatnot, then even better! I find that the GPS was much easier to use and follow, but I always carry a map with me just in case my electronics decide to die on me.

Humbug Mountain

     After the long ride we finally arrived at the parking lot of the trail head which is pretty much at the foot of the mountain. Looking up we could see that the mountain was quite large and it even had some fog nearer to the top, making it look like something from legends. We noticed that there were some camping sites just off of the trail head and some picnic areas as well. I thought this was pretty awesome and have made a point to one day take advantage of these camping areas
     Now, the whole Saddle Mountain hike is 5.2 miles to the summit and back with the summit at 3,283 feet above sea level. This hike is supposed to take 3 to 4 hours which is what we did it in, but let me tell you. The hike up went by much slower then the hike down. Considerably actually. Or at least it felt that way. Anyway, starting on the trail up we were greeted by a corridor of red alder trees. These trees actually thrive in the moist environment and have been known to grow in elevations of 3,000 feet. The first half of the trail up was actually easier then I thought, and the scenery was, needless to say breathtaking. Along with the large patches of red alders we found ourselves surrounded by hemlock, spruce, and and cedar trees. Once we reached a certain height the trees thinned out a little bit, giving us some pretty awesome views. One of which we could see Humbug Mountain.
     It was here that I noticed that there was much evidence of logging in the area. I could clearly see the bald patches of earth where trees once stood. I am not sure why this is, but it saddened me to see such beauty being destroyed in such a matter. As we continued we were greeted by the sound of a small stream of spring water coming from the mountain. I was tempted to drink this water, but thought better of it. I do not trust any water from any stream or river no matter how clean it looks.  

     Further up the climb became a bit more difficult. It became steeper, more treacherous, and in many parts of the trail we came across snow that we had to carefully tread, whilst we risk falling to our doom. The thick fog that had rolled in at that point was not very helpful either, but it did make for some great shots with my camera. The man made stairs through the whole hike seemed to be the only help we received, but we still were grateful for them. The many rock formations that we came across along the way also intrigued us. The only way I can describe them to you is by showing you the pictures of them that I took.    

     After what seemed hours of pretty difficult climbing and a few resting stops along the way, we finally made it to the summit. Unfortunately, we were not rewarded with the traditional view that a summit would give after such a hike (due to the fog), but at that point I was just glad that we made it to the top alive and in one piece. The summit was by far the coldest part of our journey and the windiest. Most of the time we were there the coastal winds would bite us with formidable fury. After a quick snack and smoke to celebrate out reaching the summit, we headed back down the trail.

At the summit! :D

     One would think that the climb down was would be the most uneventful and boring. On the contrary. Seeing the hike at a different angle was quite eye opening. Indeed the hike went by faster, but the views were totally different. So much in fact that it took us some time to realize that we had passed certain landmarks along the way that we thought we had memorized in our minds. Everything seemed almost like an entirely new hike on the return journey.
     Like I said, the return hike did not last long and we soon found ourselves at the trail head looking up at Saddle Mountain draped in even more fog then when we started making it look like a forbidden place that we had just overcome.
     Overall, Saddle Mountain proved to be a bit tougher then I thought. I am sure me being out of shape and whatnot had something to do with it, but I enjoyed every second of it nonetheless. The environment was gorgeous, even though logging was evident. I will have to do some research on that because I am sure that logging is a no no in state parks. The geography of the mountain, while being challenging was also breathtaking.  I always seem to have a fascination with cliffs, rising rock formations, and moss covered rocks. Good thing I live in Oregon then.

Coming back to the trail head

     If you ever decide to take on Saddle Mountain then I suggest that you take it slow and steady, especially if it is your first time. It is a decently difficult hike so as long as you do not rush you should be fine. Plus, why would you want to rush through the great scenery? Hikes are always better enjoyed when they are taken at a comfortable pace. And again, bring plenty of snacks and water. You are going to need it along the way. And do not forget to dress appropriately according to the weather. Better to come prepared for anything on any outing such as this.
     And there you have it! My hike for February 2013! For March's hike I have not yet decided, but I assure you that I will be coming to that decision sooner then you think. I have so many places to choose from and to only pick one each month is a much harder task then one would think. Anyways, I hope that you all enjoyed this edition of There and Back Again and that you are looking forward to my next post.
     Stay adventurous my friends!