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Mary's Peak Summit

Siuslaw National Forest, Oregon · 4 min read

Distance
3.8 mi
Elevation Gain
1,100 ft
Difficulty
moderate
Route Type
Out-And-Back
Best Season
April through October
Dog Friendly
Yes
Difficulty Score
5 / 10
Trailhead Amenities
Restroom
Vault Toilet
Parking
Free
Cell Service
Limited
Water
None
Camping
None
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Conditions, regulations, and fees change frequently. Verify with the local ranger district before your trip. Full disclaimer

At a Glance

  • Highest point in the Oregon Coast Range (4,097 feet)
  • Views from the Pacific Ocean to the Cascade Range including Mt. Jefferson and the Three Sisters
  • Noble fir forest and open meadow summit zone
  • Spring wildflower displays in the summit meadows
  • Oregon silverspot butterfly habitat in the summit grasslands

Overview

Mary's Peak stands apart from the Oregon Coast Range as the tallest point in the range, and on a clear day the summit view confirms why. Looking west you see the Pacific from a Coast Range vantage point unusual for Oregon: high enough to be above the coastal fog layer on most summer mornings. Looking east, the volcanic Cascades line the horizon from Mt. Hood to the Three Sisters. This two-ocean-and-mountains panorama is available from few places in the Pacific Northwest on foot.

The trail from the main parking area climbs through noble fir forest, a tree species that dominates the upper slopes of Mary's Peak in a stand type uncommon in the Coast Range. The noble fir transition to open summit meadows in the final section, where the hiking character shifts from forest walk to open ridgeline.

Mary's Peak is within Siuslaw National Forest and is its highest point. The relatively easy access from Corvallis (about 15 miles) and the option to drive the summit road make it one of the most visited destinations in the northern forest.

The Route

Miles 0 to 1.5: Noble Fir Forest

The trail begins at the main parking area at approximately 3,400 feet and climbs north through a majestic noble fir forest. Noble fir (Abies procera) is the dominant species here, its silvery-blue needles and clean conical form distinctive in the forest. This stand is considered one of the finer noble fir forests in Oregon.

The trail gains approximately 600 feet in this section on a consistent moderate grade. The forest is open and easy to walk through, with a simple understory of oxalis and fern.

Miles 1.5 to 1.9: Summit Meadows

The forest breaks into open meadow near the summit zone. The meadows here support the Oregon silverspot butterfly, a federally threatened species, and the summit area has been managed to maintain the grassland character. Stay on the trail to protect the meadow vegetation.

The summit is at 4,097 feet with the observation deck and summit shelter. Views are described above. The true summit is a short walk from the shelter on a clear path.

When to Visit

April through October covers the practical season. May and June bring wildflowers. July through September offers the most reliable clear days for the Cascades view. Fall is often clear with fewer visitors. Winter closes the summit road and the upper trail may require traction devices.

The summit can be in cloud even on days when the lower slopes are sunny. Check weather before making the drive specifically for summit visibility; a cloud-socked summit eliminates the primary reason to hike here.

What to Bring

  • Many hikers carry 1 to 1.5 liters of water. No water sources on the route. Individual needs vary.
  • Layers for the open summit: the meadows can be 10-15 degrees cooler and windier than the parking area.
  • Sun protection in the open meadow zone.
  • Camera for the panoramic view.
  • An offline weather app or conditions check for summit cloud forecasts.

Practical Details

Northwest Forest Pass required at the main trailhead (as of 2026). Vault restrooms at the parking area. Dogs are allowed and must be leashed in the summit meadows to protect threatened butterfly habitat.

For veterans and active military free pass programs, see veteran benefits for national forests. Follow the Leave No Trace principles especially in the sensitive summit meadow zone.

Getting There

From Corvallis, take Highway 20 west to Philomath, then Highway 34 west approximately 7 miles to the signed Mary's Peak Road turnoff. Follow Mary's Peak Road approximately 9 miles (paved) to the main trailhead parking area. Total drive from Corvallis is about 35 minutes.

From Newport, drive east on Highway 20 to Corvallis (approximately 55 miles) and then follow directions above. From Eugene, drive north on I-5 to Corvallis (approximately 40 miles) and then west.

Limited cell service at the summit. Download offline maps before leaving Philomath.

Trailhead Parking

Mary's Peak parking area at the end of Mary's Peak Road off Highway 34, approximately 9 miles from Philomath. Paved lot. Northwest Forest Pass required (as of 2026). The summit can also be accessed by a drive-up road.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive to the top of Mary's Peak?
Yes. A paved summit road leads to a small parking area near the top, with a short walk to the true summit. If you want the views without the hike, the drive is an option. The hiking trail provides access to the noble fir forest and meadow zone that the road bypasses.
What are the views from Mary's Peak?
On clear days (most common in summer and fall), the summit view spans from the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cascade Range to the east, including Mt. Jefferson, South Sister, Middle Sister, North Sister, and often Mt. Hood. The view requires genuinely clear conditions; coastal fog often limits visibility on the western side.
When do wildflowers bloom on Mary's Peak?
Peak wildflower season in the summit meadows is typically May through June. The meadows support several rare and uncommon plant species including the Oregon silverspot butterfly host plant (Viola adunca). The silverspot is a federally threatened butterfly species.
Is Mary's Peak accessible in winter?
Mary's Peak can receive significant snowfall. The summit road typically closes with snow accumulation and may not reopen until April in heavy snow years. The lower trail sections can be hiked on snowshoes or with traction devices when snow is present.
How does the Mary's Peak trail connect to other trails?
The North Ridge Trail and East Ridge Trail provide alternate routes to the summit from different starting points. The trails can be combined into loops of various lengths. The Meadow Edge Trail circles the summit zone and is suitable for shorter visits.