Alsea Falls Loop
The Alsea Falls Loop Trail, located in Oregon’s Coast Range southwest of Philomath and west of Monroe, offers visitors a scenic hiking and mountain biking experience featuring beautiful waterfalls and lush forest landscapes. This trail system, managed by the Bureau of Land Management, has gained popularity for its diverse terrain and well-maintained paths suitable for various outdoor activities.
Trail Summary
Trailhead: Located at the Alsea Falls Recreation area about 45 minutes south of Corvallis.
Access: Stellar Jay/Hard Rock Trailhead, Alsea Falls/South Fork Mile Trailhead, Green Peak Falls Trailhead, and the 14-6-9 and 14-7-36 Trailhead.
Length: 9.6 miles.
Elevation Gain: 1,282 feet maximum, but depends on how much of the loop traversed.
Difficulty: Moderate for the main loop.
Landmarks: Alsea Falls, Greenpeak Falls.
Trail Difficulty and Suitable Skill Levels
The Alsea Falls Loop Trail system offers a range of difficulty levels suitable for various skill levels, from beginners to advanced hikers and mountain bikers. The main loop trail is generally considered moderately challenging, taking an average of 1 hour to complete for hikers. For mountain bikers, the difficulty ranges from beginner to advanced, with more challenging trails located at higher elevations. The trail to Alsea Falls and Green Peak Falls is rated as easy to moderate, making it family-friendly and accessible to most hikers. However, some sections of the trail feature steep inclines and stairs, which may pose challenges for less experienced hikers or those with mobility issues. The diverse terrain and well-maintained trails cater to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts, allowing visitors to choose routes that match their abilities and preferences.
Nearby Landmarks and Attractions
The Alsea Falls Recreation Area offers more than just the loop trail, with several notable landmarks and attractions nearby. The centerpiece of the area is Alsea Falls itself, a 20-foot waterfall that can be easily accessed via a short trail from the campground or recreation area. Another highlight is Green Peak Falls, a more impressive 60-foot cascade located a short hike from Alsea Falls. These waterfalls are particularly spectacular during the spring when snowmelt and rainfall increase water flow.
The area is also known for its rich biodiversity. Visitors can observe various plant species, including fairyslipper, fawn lily, and trillium, which add splashes of color to the forest floor. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot American Dippers nesting near the waterfalls, as well as Winter Wrens and Chestnut-backed Chickadees in the surrounding forest. For those interested in extending their outdoor experience, the Alsea Falls Campground provides overnight accommodations, though it’s important to note that the campground and some facilities are seasonal, typically closed from mid-December to mid-May.
Sources:
Oregon Hikers, MTB Project, Trail Forks, All Trails, The Right Trail
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