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Saddle Mountain - Page 2

© Wayne R. Brown

I've been up Saddle Mountain once. Three of us set out that day on a seven mile, round trip hike (we took a side path) that turned out to be a grand (if sobering) adventure. I wasn't in shape for the hike and was not wearing proper footwear. I found the trail near the top to be pretty scary in places.

On the way back down, I slipped on loose gravel and fell backwards with my right leg bent back behind me. Some interesting, popping noises came from my right knee as it was bent farther than I think it was ever intended to. As I got carefully back to my feet, I had serious concerns for my right knee, but it turned out to be fine. My right ankle, however, was not so happy. It didn't bear my weight very well for a long time. Now, two and a half years later, it seems to be back to full strength. So perhaps next year, in better shape and armed with my REI Monarchs which I bought primarily for the impressive tread pattern, I will try Saddle Mountain again.

There aren't any stores or restaurants near the mountain, so I recommend bringing something to eat with you. We continued on Hwy. 26 and Hwy. 101 the additional eleven miles or so to Seaside where we dined at Dooger's. From halibut to chowder to calamari, everything we ordered there was excellent.

If you're adventurous, Saddle Mountain is one of the most awe-inspiring hikes I can recommend. The scenery is unlike anything I had ever seen or even imagined. Definitely bring a camera.

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