Happy Wanderlust Wednesday, friends! I’m recapping a short little family friendly hike just outside of McMinnville today–Erratic Rock! I was inspired to chat about this one today because the last time I hiked it was on a clear, cold winter day last year similar to some of the ones we’ve had lately! I definitely recommend this one for a mild, clear day, because there is a beautiful view at the top and not a whole lot of tree cover on the way up.
So parking is a bit of a challenge at this one, and even finding it can be an adventure! If you check out the map on their website here, you’ll see the trailhead really is just a roadside thing–no parking lot. You’ll need to park on the side of this rural road. Be super careful, since cars can fly by pretty fast on this road and there’s not a huge shoulder.
The first part of the trail is flat and goes along a little fenced-off vineyard. Then turn the corner and go up, up, up. This little one has always been fiercely independent…look at her insisting on walking!
Speaking of UP…this one’s a BEAST! I mean, if you regularly climb mountains it’s not a big deal, but if you’re like me and a fan of couches and Junior Mints and Netflix, well, your calves will be burning! But it’s quick, at least, and paved and stroller friendly. I also love that it’s a bit of a drive for us from Newberg, so that by the time we get there, the kids are ready to get out of the car and have some energy to burn anyway. Head uphill, kids!
Once you’re at the top, that’s it! I told you it was a short hike! The trail loops around the rock–the main event! Fun for climbing on to get the very best view of Yamhill Valley–McMinnville and out towards Sheridan.
Have you done this one? Tell me all about it in the comments!
