Storey Burn Trail

The Storey Burn Trail is generally considered to have an intermediate difficulty. It features diverse terrain, including loamy, rooty sections with some rocks, and can involve steep climbs with a distinctive bench-cut design and sharp turns. While rewarding, it offers a good workout for hikers, trail runners, and mountain bikers.

Yes, the trail boasts several notable natural features. About a mile above a specific trail junction, you'll find a lovely waterfall, offering a refreshing stop. The trail also showcases diverse plant life, including Goat's Beard, Bunchberry, and Orange Honeysuckle, especially vibrant at the trail's summit.

The time required to complete the Storey Burn Trail can vary significantly depending on your chosen activity (hiking, trail running, or mountain biking), your pace, and whether you complete the full length or a loop. As it connects to other trails like Gales Creek and Gravelle, a full loop can be a longer endeavor. Hikers should plan for several hours, while trail runners and mountain bikers might complete it faster, especially on the 'steaming fast sections' after climbs.

While the trail offers beautiful scenery, its terrain includes steep climbs, rooty sections, and sharp turns, which might be challenging for very young children or those unaccustomed to longer hikes. Families with older, experienced children who enjoy a moderate challenge may find it rewarding. Consider shorter sections or connecting trails for a more family-friendly experience.

Generally, trails in the Tillamook State Forest are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check local regulations for specific leash requirements. Given the trail's popularity with mountain bikers and trail runners, keeping dogs on a leash is recommended for their safety and the enjoyment of all users.

There are two primary access points. A popular starting point is near Gales Creek Campground; turn off Highway 6 at milepost 35 and follow signs for one mile to the campground's day-use parking. Another option is near milepost 33 on Highway 6, turning north onto Storey Burn Road for 1.8 miles to reach an access point.

No specific permits are generally required for day-use hiking, trail running, or mountain biking on the Storey Burn Trail. However, if you plan to camp at Gales Creek Campground, standard camping fees and reservations would apply.

The Storey Burn Trail is particularly stunning in autumn. During this season, the vine maples and alders transform the forest into a vibrant spectacle of orange and red hues, making it an ideal time for photography and enjoying the natural beauty.

Yes, the Storey Burn Trail is part of a larger network. It connects with the Gales Creek Trail and the Gravelle trail, allowing for longer loops and varied experiences, such as the popular Gales Creek and Storey Burn Trail loop run. This offers excellent opportunities for extended exploration.

The lush forest environment of the Storey Burn Trail provides habitat for various wildlife. While specific sightings are never guaranteed, visitors may spot common forest animals such as deer, squirrels, and a variety of bird species. The diverse plant life also supports a rich insect population.

The Storey Burn Trail is located within the Tillamook State Forest, which is a more natural and less developed area. While there are no immediate cafes or pubs directly at the trailhead, you can find amenities and accommodation options in nearby towns along Highway 6, such as Tillamook or Forest Grove, which are a short drive away.