The Thumb via The Knoll

The komoot tour 'The Thumb via The Knoll' is rated as easy. However, the full hike to The Thumb is generally considered moderate to strenuous. While the path to The Knoll is family-friendly, the section leading to The Thumb is unmaintained, narrow, and has steep drop-offs, making it challenging and not recommended for families or beginners. It can also be very muddy and slippery, especially after rain.

Parking can be limited and crowded, especially on weekends. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a spot. The trail starts from a trailhead that is often accessed via a dirt road.

The trail is generally dog-friendly, but it's crucial to keep your dog on a leash, especially given the steep and exposed sections towards The Thumb. Be mindful of other hikers and potential wildlife.

Late spring to early fall offers drier conditions and the chance to see wildflowers. However, the trail can be hiked year-round. During wetter seasons, the forest is lush, but expect very muddy and slippery conditions, especially on the unmaintained sections.

No specific permits or entrance fees are required to hike this trail. It is located within the Siuslaw National Forest, which generally has open access for hiking.

The hike offers diverse scenery, from lush coastal forests to open grassy meadows where elk are sometimes spotted. Key viewpoints include the View from The Knoll, offering vistas of Lincoln City and Devils Lake, and the panoramic View from God's Thumb, overlooking Lincoln City and Three Rocks Beach. You might also spot wildflowers and Rock Island, a sea stack offshore.

The initial section to The Knoll is considered family-friendly. However, the path continuing to The Thumb is a 'user-made' trail, not officially maintained, and features dangerous, unmaintained sections with steep drop-offs. It is not recommended for families or beginners due to these significant safety concerns.

The terrain varies significantly. You'll traverse shaded coastal forests with moss-laden trees, dirt trails that sometimes double as a dirt road, and expansive grassy meadows. The final approach to The Thumb is particularly rugged, narrow, and prone to severe erosion, with steep cliffs on either side.

Given the potential for mud and steep sections, hiking boots with good traction are highly recommended. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and layers of clothing, as coastal weather can change quickly. An offline trail map is also advisable due to potential confusion on the unmaintained sections.

Yes, sections of this route also pass through parts of the High Meadow Trail and the Gods Thumb-The Knoll Trailhead.

Yes, the section leading to The Thumb is particularly hazardous. It is an unmaintained, 'user-made' trail with severe erosion, narrow passages, and steep, exposed drop-offs. Hikers have been seriously injured here, and rescues have occurred. Exercise extreme caution, especially in wet conditions, and consider turning back at The Knoll if you are uncomfortable with the risks.