Mazamas — For the Love of Mountains
You can start this loop at either the Elk Creek Trailhead or the Kings Mountain Trailhead and you can go clockwise or counter-clockwise (although counter-clockwise is more popular as it has you ascending Elk Mountain as opposed to descending it). To save the 3.5 mile Wilson River Trail return, you could do a car shuttle.
The trail is is steep and rugged in many spots. The trail off the summit of Elk Mountain is a bit exposed and can be challenging in winter conditions. Along the traverse to Kings Mountain there is a fixed line in one place to protect on particularly exposed section.
This trail is not for the beginner hiker.
Activity Notes
Coast range hike that's at times very steep, with scramble moves requiring all four limbs. Ascend Elk Mountain, traverse to Kings Mountain, and descend to Wilson River return trail to complete counter-clockwise loop. Strong fitness and even stronger knees are required of all who sign up for this conditioning hike. Successful applicants' Mazamas profiles will reveal evidence of recent (spring 2020) strenuous hikes.
