Trappist Abbey

Red-berried Elder (Sambucus racemosa)

Moderate

4 miles round trip

800 feet elevation gain

The spiritual retreat of a Cistercian (Trappist) order of monks, the wooded grounds of the monastery of Our Lady of Guadalupe are open to respectful visitors. Hikers are asked to speak quietly, bring no electronic devices, and stay on the main trail—an old road that climbs through an oak savannah to a hilltop shrine with a view across the Willamette Valley. Dogs must be on leash.

Dating to 1098 AD, the Trappist order is dedicated to seclusion and contemplation. About 30 monks live at the Oregon abbey, founded in 1955. In addition to observing a regimen of prayer, they bind books, store wine, and bake fruitcake. From Newberg, drive Highway 99W . . .

This chapter is an excerpt from 100 Hikes : Oregon Coast