Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail

For those seeking a peaceful and moderately challenging hike through lush forest landscapes, the Skidder Row to Hares Canyon Trail in L.L. “Stub” Stewart State Park offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Oregon’s rich timber history and natural beauty. With towering firs, ferns, and opportunities to spot wildlife, this scenic connector trail is a must-hike in the northern Oregon Coast Range.

Trail Overview

• Location: Stub Stewart State Park, near Buxton, Oregon

• Surface: Dirt, gravel, and forest floor

• Difficulty: Moderate

• Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall for best trail conditions

This trail begins on Skidder Row, a nod to the area’s logging past, and gradually climbs through second-growth forest before connecting to the wider Hares Canyon Trail system. You’ll enjoy a quiet, shaded journey beneath Douglas fir and western red cedar, with occasional openings that offer glimpses of the surrounding ridges.

Hours of Operation

• Open year-round, daily from dawn to dusk

• Some trail conditions may vary in winter months—check Oregon State Parks for alert

Parking & Trail Access

• Parking available at the Hilltop Day-use Area within Stub Stewart State Park

• Additional access from trailheads off the Banks-Vernonia State Trail

• Restrooms and picnic areas located near major parking zones

Permits & Fees

• $5 day-use parking fee (pay at kiosk or use Oregon State Parks pass)

• No special permits required for hiking

Are Dogs Allowed?

• Yes, dogs are welcome on leash

• Please pack out waste and respect wildlife

ADA Accessibility

• This trail is not ADA-accessible, as it includes elevation gain and uneven surfaces

• Paved portions of Stub Stewart (such as the Banks-Vernonia Trail) are ADA-friendly for alternative options

What to Bring

• Sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes

• Layers—weather can change quickly in the Coast Range

• Water and snacks

• Trekking poles if you prefer stability on forest terrain

• A trail map or GPS app—intersections with multiple spur trails can be confusing