Ridgeline trail part 2
Willamette St. to Spencer Butte
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Most people who live in Eugene have done the Spencer Butte hike, but the majority of people do it from the Spencer Butte trailhead. From there it is a leisurely 2 mile hike up to the summit. If you want more, you can actually park at the Willamette St. Ridgeline Trail System trailhead and make the hike either a more difficult 5.4 mile partial loop, or a relatively easy 3.4 miles. Whichever you choose, the first part of the trail is the same. |
From the Willamette St. trailhead you will follow the Ridgeline trail for 1.2 miles. At first the woods are a bit sparse, but they quickly become very lush, with lots of bright green fern undergrowth and tall trees.
The trail is very smooth and well maintained, however because this area is so lush and wet, it does tend to get pretty muddy in the winter season, so it's best to wear good hiking shoes!
The trail is very smooth and well maintained, however because this area is so lush and wet, it does tend to get pretty muddy in the winter season, so it's best to wear good hiking shoes!
After 1.2 miles, the Ridgeline Trail does continue straight another .7 miles to the Fox Hollow Rd. trailhead. However, if you want to go up Spencer Butte, you will follow the well-marked signs and turn right. Here the trail starts to climb uphill a bit more. You will continue for about another .5 mile until coming to a T junction. |
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At this T is where you make your choice on whether you want more mileage and a more difficult trail, or if you want to keep it at 3.4 miles and climb an easier route to the top.
If you're wanting to keep it easy and less mileage, take the trail to the right. If you want more difficult and more mileage turn left. If you turn left, you are essentially walking downhill for .5 mile to the Spencer Butte parking area (there is a pit toilet here if needed). And from there, you will take the West side trail up to the top, essentially creating a loop, as you will come down via the easier trail. The west side trail is extremely steep with lots of rocks that one has to climb up. There are occasionally multiple routes where you have to look at the rocks and pick your own route. It's definitely more exciting, and much more difficult! I don’t recommend doing this side with small children. |
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The top of Spencer Butte is awesome, with lots of rocks to sit on. If it's a clear day, you will be rewarded with views across Eugene and Springfield, as well as Fern Ridge Reservoir, the coast range, and on a really clear day even the Three Sisters can be seen to the East. In the spring and summer time, there are a lot of fat squirrels that hang out at the top, begging for your food. Keep in mind the Leave No Trace Principles, and DON'T FEED THEM!!!
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Overall, the Ridgeline to Spencer Butte trail is a great hike for being practically in the heart of Eugene! For those of you who are getting into shape, or have physical limitations in any way, it is not recommend that you do the more difficult west side trail.
On the main Spencer Butte trail towards the summit, they have now carved stairs into the rock for easier stepping, especially when wet.
On the main Spencer Butte trail towards the summit, they have now carved stairs into the rock for easier stepping, especially when wet.
Approximate hike time: 2 hours 20 minutes (for the 5.4 mile hike)
Suggested seasons: Spring, summer, fall, winter
Trail usage: Heavy
Directions: From downtown Eugene head south on Willamette St. until there is a Y split. Keep right on Willamette St. and continue 2 miles until you see the Ridgeline trailhead on your left.
Suggested seasons: Spring, summer, fall, winter
Trail usage: Heavy
Directions: From downtown Eugene head south on Willamette St. until there is a Y split. Keep right on Willamette St. and continue 2 miles until you see the Ridgeline trailhead on your left.
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*All pictures are taken by Franziska Weinheimer
*Disclaimer: the trail descriptions, mileage, GPS tracks and difficulty ratings depicted on this website are never 100% accurate. Always hike at your own risk, using your own knowledge, equipment and common sense. Franziska Weinheimer/Hike Oregon are not responsible if you or anyone in your party gets injured or lost while attempting one of these or any other hikes.
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