Wilson River Trail

Hike the Kings Mountain Trail in Tillamook State Forest for a steep climb, panoramic views, and a rewarding outdoor challenge.

Hike the challenging 7.2-mile Wilson River Trail from Kings Mountain to Jones Creek, featuring steep canyons and the North Fork bridge.

Embark on an easy hike along the Wilson River Trail, starting from the Elk Creek Trailhead. This 3.6-mile (5.8 km) route takes you through a lush rainforest, where you'll gain 411 feet (125 metres) of elevation over approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes. Look for moss-covered boulders and trees, with Douglas-fir forests and bigleaf maples overhead, as you follow the path that frequently dips into creek drainages and offers views of the Wilson River corridor.

Planning your visit is straightforward, as this section of the trail is generally well-signed. Parking is typically available at the Elk Creek Trailhead, which serves as a convenient starting point for your adventure. While this segment is easy, be aware that it connects to more challenging routes, including the very difficult Kings Mountain and Elk Mountain summits, should you choose to extend your hike.

This particular segment of the Wilson River Trail offers a pleasant walk within the Tillamook State Forest, providing a distinct experience from the more strenuous mountain climbs it can link to. As you explore, keep an eye out for local wildlife; Roosevelt elk are known to browse in the meadows along the way, adding to the natural charm of the route.