If you’re traveling to a vacation rental this summer in either the Lincoln City or Roads End area of Oregon, be sure to check out this hiking area. The locals call it the Knoll. Nestled just north of Lincoln City, Oregon, The Knoll offers hikers a moderately challenging trail with rewarding panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, Devils Lake, and the surrounding coastal landscape. This guide provides comprehensive information on the trail, including directions, trail details, safety tips, and what to expect during your hike.
It is a fun workout and extremely steep hike that is about a mile or so long. The rugged forest air is invigorating and you might even see some deer on your trek up. As you near the top of the Knoll, you can hear the rolling waves crashing against the Oregon coastline. The exercise and experience from this hike make it completely worth it.
Trail Overview
Trail Name: The Knoll
Location: Lincoln City, Oregon
Distance: Approximately 3 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: Approximately 565 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Trail Type: Loop
Dog-Friendly: Yes, on a leash
Best Time to Hike: Spring through Fall
Getting There
Directions to Trailhead
To reach The Knoll trailhead:
From Highway 101 in Lincoln City, turn east onto NE Devils Lake Boulevard.
Continue for approximately 1 mile until you reach a cul-de-sac.
Park along the street; the trailhead is just beyond the cul-de-sac.
Park here and then head left up the hill.
Alternatively, for a shorter hike:
From Highway 101, turn east onto NE Logan Road.
Continue onto NE Sal La Sea Drive.
Look for a dirt road on the right; proceed slowly as this is a residential area.
At the fork with a closed gate on the right, park in the available area.
Various people live up on this hill and parking is limited. Once you start heading up, it’s all rights from here on out, except when you make it to the top.
Which way, which way? Head right when you get here.
Trail Description
The Knoll trail begins with a steady incline through a lush coastal forest, featuring towering evergreens and dense underbrush. As you ascend, the trail offers glimpses of the ocean and surrounding landscape. The path is well-trodden but can be muddy, especially after rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended.
Approximately halfway through the hike, the forest opens up to a grassy meadow known as The Knoll. From here, hikers are rewarded with sweeping views of Lincoln City, Devils Lake, and the Pacific Ocean. On clear days, you can see as far as Cascade Head to the north and Siletz Bay to the south.
The trail continues beyond The Knoll, looping back through the forest to the trailhead. For those seeking a longer hike, a spur trail leads to God’s Thumb, a prominent basalt formation offering dramatic coastal views. However, this section is more challenging and should be approached with caution.
Another fork?! Head right again.
Flora and Fauna
The Knoll trail is rich in biodiversity. Hikers may encounter:
Flora: Sitka spruce, western hemlock, sword ferns, and seasonal wildflowers like foxglove and lupine.
Fauna: Black-tailed deer, elk, various bird species, and, occasionally, black bears.
Always observe wildlife from a distance and avoid feeding animals.
Here’s where the hike really begins.
There is a foot path to the right of the gate for access.
The beaten path on the right leads the way to the Knoll. It’s about half a mile from here to the top.
Safety Tips
Footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof hiking boots.
Weather: Check the forecast before your hike; coastal weather can change rapidly.
Trail Conditions: Be prepared for muddy and slippery sections, especially after rain.
Navigation: Carry a map or GPS device; while the trail is marked, fog can reduce visibility.
Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from all wildlife and store food securely.
Emergency: Note the GPS marker signs along the trail (G1–G14) for emergency reference.
You’re just about there!
Here you’ll want to make a left out into the clearing. The hill is quite overgrown now that we are approaching summer. Watch your step, as animal droppings are quite prevalent when you get to the clearing. The path is defined by beaten down grass, but it’s wise to go single file.
Walking through the clearing.
You made it! The amazing view from the Knoll of beautiful Roads End below.
Once you get to the view overlooking Roads End, watch your step. A fall from this height could really hurt. Most of all, enjoy yourself! This hike is well worth it when you see the view of Roads End, the Pacific Ocean, and the beautiful Oregon coastline. From this vantage point, you can see the northern part of Devil’s Lake, parts of Neotsu and Otis, Roads End State Park down by the beach, the Chinook Winds Casino and Resort, and lots of beach front vacation rentals.
Note: On the way back, you’ll want to go right to start heading back down, and then make only lefts.
Nearby Attractions
Enhance your visit to Lincoln City by exploring nearby attractions:
Devils Lake State Recreation Area: Offers boating, fishing, and picnic areas.
Roads End State Recreation Site: A popular beach access point with tide pools and scenic views.
Chinook Winds Casino Resort: Features gaming, dining, and entertainment options.
Lincoln City Outlets: A shopping destination with various brand-name stores.
Make sure to bring a water bottle and possibly a small snack with you on this hike. A camera or your phone is also a must, as the view from the top is beautiful. Come up here in the middle of the day or plan it so you catch the sunset. Be safe, courteous, and most importantly, have a great time as you explore Lincoln City on your next vacation down to the Oregon coast!
Accommodations
For a comfortable stay near The Knoll, consider booking a vacation rental with Oregon Beach Vacations. Options range from cozy cottages to spacious oceanfront homes, many of which are pet-friendly and equipped with modern amenities.
Hiking The Knoll in Lincoln City offers a rewarding experience for outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. With its moderate difficulty, stunning vistas, and rich natural surroundings, it’s a must-visit trail on the Oregon Coast. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk or a challenging hike, The Knoll provides an unforgettable adventure. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the beauty of the Oregon Coast.
Note: Always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of the trail for future visitors.
