Humbug Mountain Trails–November 17 (10:00) – Humbug Mountain, south of Port Orford, has never been on our schedule…for two reasons: First, the trail to the top is strenuous. It’s steep, an 1800 foot elevation gain, with lots of switchbacks. Many of our hikers might find it difficult. Second, there wasn’t a view at the top. When I first moved to Oregon, I heard that it was the lack of a view that gave Humbug its name. A good story, but not true. Both problems will be solved with this hike. First, there is now a view from the top. The park has removed some of the trees that once blocked the view, so there are good views to both the North and the South. Second, we will be doing two different hikes: The short hike won’t go up the mountain. Instead, it will pass through the campground, climb up a trail to old Highway 101, and follow the old roadbed past some good views of Humbug Mountain, Redfish Rocks, and Port Orford. The part of the hike to the old highway is fairly steep (Elevation gain 356 feet over a short distance), but then it levels out. This shorter hike may be self guided, but we have a detailed trail guide. The long hike will go to the top of the mountain, following the South Trail on the way up and the North Trail on the way down. Location and Time: We will meet at the Humbug Mountain trail head at 10:00 on Sunday, November 17. Directions: Take the Coast Highway (101) south, past Port Orford. The trail head is about six miles south of Port Orford. Suggested Carpool Sites & departure times (It’s a good idea to use the FB group to arrange carpools): Bay Area Visitor Center—8:20, Rays in Bandon—9:10, Coquille Visitor Center—8:40, Battle Rock Park Visitor Center—9:45.
