Elk Mountain - Kings Mountain loop hike

For our final Friday hike before my schedule changes, let's do something a little more on brand for me. Temps will be slightly cooler near the coast, so let's do a classic NW Wilderness butt-kicker!

Due to the challenging nature of this route (There's even a fixed rope as we exit the traverse between the two peaks), I'm looking for a smaller group size so we can keep moving. It's tough, but it's worth it!

• Difficulty: Difficult (Steepness, rugged terrain, some exposure)

• Hiking distance: Roughly 11 miles

• Elevation gain: 3700 feet

• Total driving distance: 84 miles from Beaverton

• Total time: As long as it takes. Hopefully between 4 to 5.5 hours

The plan is to start at the King's Mountain trail head (where our loop will end) and get that pesky 3.5 "return" trail to Elk Mountain out of the way first. I'm not opposed to a light jog for this stretch... But whatever pace the group feels up to is fine. I'm easy.

We'll then climb up the steep Elk Mountain, traverse over to King's Mountain, and finally make the descent back to our cars.

https://secure.meetupstatic.com/photos/event/8/b/1/a/600_462335610.jpeg

Hopefully we'll have even clearer views than when Skye took this photo

It's tougher and rougher than it sounds (nothing technical), but anyone who loves a challenge should appreciate this hike. This hike is quite the stress reliever.

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Photo: Nope, I'm not gonna lick the Elk Mountain summit sign this time around

• Here is a detailed description of one variation of the Elk Mountain/King's Mountain Loop Hike: http://www.portlandhikersfieldguide.org/wiki/Elk_Mountain-King%27s_Mountain_Loop_Hike

My usual hiking style is fairly brisk (3-3.5 mph), but it's fine if we go a little slower than that on this route. Just make sure you are confident in your ability to ascend rough and steep terrain before you sign up for this event. We will enjoy a lunch break and short breaks as needed for snacks and photos.

• Gas: 84 miles total driving; $8 to driver(s) if you organize a carpool from Sunset Transit Center, etc.

• Bring: 2+ liters of water, food/snacks, warm layers of non-cotton clothing including rain gear, a camera, and shoes with good traction. Poles could be useful.

It is also recommended that hikers always carry the, um, "ELEVEN" Essentials:

1. Navigation (map, compass, and an awareness of our route)

2. Sun protection (sunglasses and sunscreen)

3. Insulation (extra clothing)

4. Illumination (headlamp/flashlight and extra batteries)

5. First-aid supplies

6. Fire (waterproof matches/lighter/candles)

7. Knife/tools

8. Nutrition (extra food)

9. Hydration (extra water)

10. Emergency whistle and general preparedness in the event that you become separated from our group and/or have to spend the night in the wilderness.

11. A fast machine. But keep your motor clean.

PARTICIPATE AT YOUR OWN RISK; Northwest Wilderness Group organizers are volunteers. We come prepared to lead you on a trail or off trail hike but assume no liability for your safety getting to or from the trail-head or on the hike. In case of accident, illness, or other incapacity, hikers must pay for their own medical and/or evacuation expenses, whether or not the hiker has specifically authorized them.