Storey Burn Loop
Gales Creek, Oregon
Details
Distance
7.6 miles
Elevation Gain
1775 ft
Route Type
Loop
Description
Added by Outbound
The Storey Burn Loop in the Tillamook State Forest offers a dynamic trail experience for hikers, mountain bikers, and trail runners looking to explore the lush beauty of Oregon’s coastal foothills. Located just off Highway 6 between Portland and Tillamook, this scenic loop features a mix of forest roads, singletrack trails, and shaded ridgelines with occasional views into the Coast Range.
Trail Overview
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Location: Storey Burn Trailhead, Tillamook State Forest (Near milepost 33 on OR-6)
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Trail Use: Hiking and mountain biking
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Best Season: Spring through fall (can be muddy in winter)
The loop combines sections of the Storey Burn Trail, Gales Creek Trail, and connecting forest roads, offering a quiet, less-trafficked experience through Douglas fir forests, fern-lined paths, and open clearings. It’s especially popular among intermediate-level mountain bikers seeking a rewarding climb and flowy descent.
Hours of Operation
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Open daily from dawn to dusk
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May be seasonally affected by snow or logging activity—check with the Tillamook State Forest office for current trail conditions
Parking and Trail Access
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Parking available at the Storey Burn Trailhead off Highway 6
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No restroom facilities at the trailhead—plan accordingly
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Trailhead signage marks both directions of the loop; a map or GPS is recommended as intersections are not always well-marked
Permits & Fees
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No permits required
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No parking fee at the trailhead
Are Dogs Allowed?
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Yes, dogs are allowed but must be kept on leash and under control
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Be aware of mountain bikers and wildlife
What to Bring
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Plenty of water and snacks—there are no facilities along the trail
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Sturdy hiking shoes or bike gear if riding
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GPS, offline map, or printed trail guide
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Layers—weather can shift quickly in the forest
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Trekking poles (optional but helpful on steeper sections)
Whether you’re looking to push your legs on a climb, enjoy a forested loop on two wheels, or hike through one of Oregon’s quieter woodland gems, the Storey Burn Loop is a great choice for adventure in the Tillamook State Forest.
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Storey Burn Loop Reviews
A beautiful, lush trail in the Tillamook State Forest that takes you on a scenic loop filled with moss-covered trees, along Gales Creek, and through winding trails. Doesn’t seem like a very crowded trail, however, I hiked this on a weekend with a trail runner race going on so it wad busier than anticipated. Highly recommend doing this if you are a mountain biker! If I come back, I’ll definitely be biking the loop.
4.0
Leave No Trace
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!
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