Easy to See Why It’s Called Hiking On God’s Thumb, OR

Hike Distance: 3.9 miles

Elevation Gain: 1,108 ft

Highest Point: 605 feet

We opted for God's Thumb as our final coastal hike for several reasons. First, the name was 'click bait' for anyone who enjoys an adventurous hike. With a name like 'God's Thumb', who wouldn't be intrigued. I hoped it might resemble Angel's Landing in Zion National Park. Secondly, the hike's duration was ideal, given that we had a long drive ahead to Crater Lake National Park in Southern Oregon.

WARNING: Parking at the trailhead is limited and strictly monitored by local residents. It's advisable to park at Roads End State Park and walk up NE Sal La Sea Drive to reach the trailhead. We were fortunate to use AllTrails directions to the trailhead and secure one of the few designated parking spots at the end of NE Sal La Sea Drive. Be sure to follow the signs indicating where parking is prohibited.

We parked near the trailhead and made our way to the gate that marks the beginning of the hike and followed the signs for 'The Knoll'. This route was formerly an old road utilized by a nearby quarry.

After walking half a mile, the trail veered to the left, and we took the somewhat overgrown path to a clearing known as 'The Knoll'. This open area offers breathtaking views of Lincoln City and beaches stretching as far as the eye can see.

Despite the cloudy weather, there were excellent views of Devils Lake and the hills encircling Lincoln City.

We returned to the main trail and we found ourselves entering this strangely illuminated 'space portal.'

Passing through the portal, we entered an old-growth forest.

We were surrounded by Sitka spruce. These trees grow in the cool, moist maritime climate from Northern California to the Aleutian Islands of Alaska, seldom straying far from salt water environments.

They rank as the fifth-largest conifers globally, following Sequoias, coastal redwoods, Noble fir, and Douglas fir. Typically, they stand between 180 to 225 feet tall and have a diameter of three to five feet.

Moss blanketed nearly every surface, occasionally growing so densely that it doubled the size of tree branches. Unlike English ivy, mosses are not parasitic and do not harm trees, except for the extra weight they add to the surfaces they cover.

MYTH: Moss has been used as a natural compass around the world, but beware! Moss can thrive anywhere with sufficient moisture, not just on the north side of surfaces. Factors like the direction of prevailing wind and rain can affect moss growth. Therefore, don't depend on it if you're lost in the forest.

After half a mile the forest gave way to a grassy and tree-covered hillside.

Thistle grew in bunches among the grass and ferns.

These meadows are sensitive environmental zones, so remain on the designated path to avoid making new trails through the grass. Soon, we heard the sound of waves crashing on the beach.

The trail weaved its way through several short treed areas before narrowing and providing the first glimpse of God's Thumb.

This spectacular outcropping of basalt rises above the ocean like a gigantic thumbs-up.

To convey the scale, I've included this photo of a person standing beside the tree at the summit; it's larger than it appears in many of the blog photos.

I think this is the point where I have to admit that I might not have been completely clear when I described the hike to Dave. This is the look of someone who is not happy with the trail ahead.

This part of the trail is highly exposed and eroded. Telling people to 'stay on the path, be cautious, and watch your step' is merely stating the obvious.

There's no avoiding it; steep drop-offs flank either side of the trail. A slip to the right would send you plummeting to a beach strewn with rocks. A stumble to the left would mean a long fall before coming to a halt. This trail might not be suitable for everyone!

This view from the summit provides a clearer perspective of the cliff's steepness and the proximity of the trail to the edge. If conditions are rainy or muddy, you might reconsider proceeding. There have been instances where people needed rescue from this section of the trail.

After navigating the cliff walk, there was a brief but steep climb to the summit.

The breathtaking views from the summit made the challenging part of the trail completely worthwhile. There are stunning vistas to the south of Lincoln City and the seemingly endless stretch of beach.

Steep cliffs descended to hidden beaches where waves crashed against the rugged shoreline.

Sweeping coastal views.

I captured a few last pictures of Dave on the summit.

For some reason, coming down from the summit seemed less intimidating. This time, we moved with more confidence. While it might not be considered a 'knife's edge' trail, it was equally as enjoyable.

For decades, God’s Thumb remained a well-kept secret in Lincoln City. However, the increase in online information and efforts by the city to make the area accessible have enabled many more people to enjoy one of the state's most stunning locations.

Now it was time for us to continue our Oregon adventures inland with a trip to Crater Lake and Mount Hood.