The trail network on Cape Mountain was designed to be shared by horses and hikers, but you’re unlikely to meet either horses or hikers. It’s odd, really, because the trails loop through nice old-growth forests and meadows with ocean views.

This coastal mountain was called Tsahawtita (“grassy ridge”) by local Indians because they burned off the forest here to simplify deer hunting. After the Forest Service built a fire lookout on the summit in 1932, the forest grew up and blocked most views. Today the only trailside structure is a hitsi, an Indian hunting shelter, reconstructed from a description by an early homesteader.

Drive Highway 101 north …

For a longer loop with better views, turn right . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes : Oregon Coast