Spencer’s Butte
Spencer’s Butte is a favorite hike among Eugene locals. In fact, it’s probable a hiker who hasn’t trekked the 1.7 mile and 2052ft climb gets dirty scowls on the street, tossed out of their favorite restaurants, and is forever tattooed an outcast by the hiking community. Women turn their children away in disgust and an inescapable shame clouds the inexperienced hiker’s life!
Although this is a slight exaggeration, the point is Spencer’s Butte is Eugene’s bread and butter hike, the pillar of all local hikes.
The summit shares a 360 degree vista of Oregon, a sight that reveals an especially unique and intimate piece of Eugene. So tourists and locals alike, grab your backpacks and boots, pack a picnic, and head to the top of Spencer’s Butte.
There are several ways to reach the top:
- One trail head is located at Willamette St. and 52nd with a parking lot on the east side of Willamette St.
- Further south on Willamette St. is the Spencer Butte trail head, this is the shortest path.
- Finally, there is access available from the Fox Hollow trail head.
Despite its notorious reputation, Spencer’s Butte Hike is moderately easy. The entire climb is gradual, until the last few hundred feet, which become rocky and slightly steeper. Everyone from older couples, high school long distance runners, and families with dogs and baby bound backpacks hike Spencer’s Butte at a vigorous, moderate, or comfortable pace. However, remember to keep all dogs on a leash and bring a bag for their waste. Also, keep kids close, as the trail is harder to follow and more dangerous towards the summit.
Initially the trail creeps through a Douglas Fir forest with thick green vegetation. Foot bridges shoot out above mountain streams and creeks, and upon crossing, an elk eyes new foreign friends and continues his lazy lunch-time graze. The dirt path begins to switch back moderately up the side of the hill, only to return to an easy gradual uphill. Stopping for a quick snack break, a hiker might notice wildflowers underneath a common plant. As a bird sings, the path begins to clear out and an official park sign points towards the summit trail.
About a quarter-mile before the peak, this area has picnic tables and open spaces for families to unwind and enjoy the mountain atmosphere. At this point, stopping for lunch is insane, because the top is just minutes away! Here, the dirt path begins to turn rocky, and metal trail signs with arrows mark the direction. With loose rocks of various shapes and sizes, it’s not uncommon to lose footing. Although this 784ft climb should slow most hikers down to a very slow pace, make sure to take special care in balance and proper footing.
Upon approaching the peak, a delicate breeze welcomes hikers. However, more than the cool breeze, the best reward is the unforgettable view, perfect to catch the snowy caps of distant mountains, or at a day’s end, the great crimson sun as it fizzles into the pacific ocean.
Because Spencer’s Butte is such a short hike, lasting only about 3-4 hours up and back, a large and heavy backpack isn’t recommended. Pack small, bring appropriate gear for the weather, and make sure to bring a camera!
Finally, Eugene is a pristine city and it’s the community’s responsibility to keep it that way. Leave the environment undisturbed, pick up not only your waste but others’ waste, and follow all official park/trail guidelines. Also, while most poison oak is cut back from trails, it’s still a good idea to be able to identify and stay away from it. Discolored reddish-brown leaves of three usually denote poison oak, but during wet seasons it can still be green. Also, the middle leaf is usually extended from the other leaves by a slightly longer stem. Ultimately, the best way to avoid poison oak is to stay on trails, and pack some sort of repellent such as Technu.
Remember, the best way to discover Eugene is to get outdoors. So, get off your computer and take to the city, rivers, or Eugene’s best hike, Spencer’s Butte!
Written by Zak Weinberg for DiscoverEugene.com
