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June 24, 2024
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February 28, 2023
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View from The Knoll
12
hikers
4.14km
01:17
170m
100m
The Thumb via The Knoll offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Oregon's dramatic coastline on an easy 2.6-mile (4.1 km) hike. You'll start by winding through lush coastal forests before reaching The Knoll, which provides expansive views over Lincoln City and the Pacific. The trail then continues to God's Thumb, a striking basalt headland that delivers unparalleled panoramic ocean vistas, making it a high-reward option for those seeking big views without a huge time commitment.
Plan your visit by arriving early, as this popular trail can see crowded parking. While the route is rated easy and takes about 1 hour and 16 minutes to complete, be prepared for potentially muddy conditions, especially after rain, and consider an offline map for the less maintained sections. The final stretch to God's Thumb is exposed, so exercise caution, particularly with children.
What makes this trail particularly notable is the unique geological formation of God's Thumb itself, a basalt headland jutting into the ocean, providing a rare combination of dramatic cliffs and expansive vistas. The hike offers a diverse experience, transitioning from dense forests to wide-open ridges and coastal meadows, making it a standout for its varied scenery and impressive viewpoints along the Oregon Coast.
1
hikers
5.30km
01:40
210m
220m
The Knoll Loop offers a fantastic taste of the Oregon Coast's dramatic beauty, packing panoramic ocean views into an easy 3.3-mile (5.3 km) hike. You'll start by climbing through a lush coastal forest filled with towering evergreens, the air crisp and invigorating, before emerging onto the grassy expanse of The Knoll. From this viewpoint, the Pacific Ocean stretches out before you, alongside Lincoln City and Devils Lake, making the 680 feet (207 metres) of elevation gain feel incredibly rewarding for the 1 hour and 40 minutes it typically takes.
Planning your visit to this popular trail is straightforward, though a few tips will enhance your experience. The path can get muddy after rain, so sturdy, waterproof footwear is a good idea, especially on the steep climbs and potentially slippery downhill sections. The best time to visit is generally from spring through fall, and it's a dog-friendly route, provided your canine companion stays on a leash. Arriving earlier in the day is often recommended to beat any crowds.
What makes The Knoll Loop truly notable is its stunning vistas and the rich biodiversity you might encounter. Beyond the sweeping ocean views, the trail is home to Sitka spruce, western hemlock, and seasonal wildflowers like foxglove. Keep an eye out for wildlife such as black-tailed deer, elk, and various bird species, and occasionally even black bears. The trail also connects to the more challenging God's Thumb spur, offering an option for those seeking an even more strenuous adventure.
5.0
(6)
120
hikers
8.79km
02:41
260m
260m
Hike the moderate 5.5-mile Road's End to God’s Thumb Loop for dramatic coastal views and a unique basalt formation near Lincoln City.
Details
Informations
Elevation 120 m
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Wednesday 17 June
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Max wind speed: 26.0 km/h
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