Outings! – Steam Donkey Trail

The Steam Donkey Trail was an unexpected delight on my journey Northwest to Seaside, Oregon this weekend. Equally unexpected was the snow in the mountains, which was the whole reason I stopped at the Sunset Rest Stop in the first place. 

Everywhere I looked was a dirt road or trailhead that had me absolutely salivating to explore, but I was on the clock, didn’t have any gear with me, and I was alone. So when the sign for the rest stop came up, I decided to pull in and take a couple pictures of the winter wonderland, and then be on my way. 

But, in true Oregon fashion, this was one of the prettiest rest stops I’d ever seen! The grass was coated white with snow, the trees were bold and bright in their fall colors, and the creek ran loud and swift. It was freezing out (literally), but I didn’t care. I was utterly enchanted. 

Which was why, when I discovered the trailhead for the Steam Donkey Trail, I made the absolutely stupid decision to hike it alone. Keep in mind, I had no gear beyond a beanie and a raincoat. I was wearing Chuck Taylor’s for Christ’s sake!

(Note: I want to be very clear that I did not get hurt, nor was I ever in any danger on this ill-advised adventure. Don’t worry, I’m safe at home now.)

The trail starts with an informational sign that tells you all about the logging history of the area, and explains the machinery known as a Steam Donkey (it’s basically a stationary steam engine that drags downed trees to it for harvesting). Then you head to a very cute bridge that cross the South Fork of Rock Creek.

Once across, the trail forks left and right. This trail is actually two loops that weave together in a figure-eight, so you can take either fork and wind up back at the bridge. I went left because it was a little less crowded by the vibrant yellow alder trees.

The trail is in great shape, and despite the freezing rain and snow, there wasn’t much mud. But here’s the thing: I was alone, on a trail no one knew I was at, in increasingly wet, slippery shoes, with no cell service. If I fell and hurt myself, I would be unable to call for help. No one would find me. And the weather would only get colder as the day turned to evening. I was not prepared for this adventure, and continuing on because it was short and “easy” was a foolish idea. 

So when I reached the second fork, where the two loops meet, I turned back the way I came (the now known quantity) and returned to the car.

Again, I had a great time, did not ever come close to falling or getting lost, or ever seemed to be in any sort of tangible danger. I’m pretty confident that I could have finished the loops and had a great (soggy) time. But, that would have been a reckless decision. As much as I wish I could have seen the rest of the trail, I know I made the right call in turning around and getting back on the road to Seaside. 

And now I know of a new trail to check out the next time I’m up in that part of the state! I also passed several trailheads as I drove further, so there’s plenty to explore up there. I can’t wait to check it out when time and weather permit.