Cherished for its rare wildflowers, the Saddle Mountain Trail is open to hikers once again after years of repair. The 2.5-mile route is steep and difficult in places, with more than 1,600 feet of elevation gain.

In September, the Saddle Mountain State Natural Area reopened to visitors after closing for repairs over much of the past three years.

Hiking the 2.5-mile trail to Clatsop County’s tallest peak has long been of interest to my dad and I. When we heard the trail was open, we planned for a mild Sunday afternoon to make the trip.

The trailhead begins at a picnic area after a turnoff from U.S. Highway 26, east of Seaside.

There, a steady incline — a 1,640-foot elevation gain — leads through old-growth cedar trees and lush ferns to sloping meadows.

In the spring and summer, these meadows are home to many rare wildflowers and mosses. Some, like the Saddle Mountain bittercress, are even named for the area.

Fewer of those are around in the fall, but there are big-leaf maples and clusters of bluebells.

For those making the climb, note that the trail is steep, especially toward the summit. Recent improvements have made footing a bit easier, but take it slow and be prepared for changing weather.

At the mountain’s rocky summit, panoramic views stretch from the mouth of the Columbia River south to Tillamook Head and over to the high peaks of the Cascade Mountains.

A note for next time: Bring a pair of binoculars and a long camera lens.