Marys Peak, the tallest peak in the Coast Range at 4,097 feet, dominates the Corvallis skyline. A gorgeous 30-minute drive from Corvallis along HW-34 will lead you to the peak, where you can enjoy views that, on a clear day, showcase the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Cascades to the east. But the stunning views aren't the only thing Marys Peak has to offer.
It's easy to spend a day - or even a few days, if you like camping - enjoying everything Marys Peak has to offer. Hike alongside rolling meadows and through soaring evergreen forests. Bring your bike and enjoy black diamond mountain biking through scenery that will take your breath away. Pack a picnic to enjoy after a short hike from the parking lot up to the peak itself.
During the spring, you'll find waterfalls cascading down Marys Peak, and in the spring and summer you can take in the wildflowers filling the meadows with color and butterflies. Autumn will offer panoramic views of fall color in the valley. During the winter, Marys Peak offers snowshoeing and skiing, as well as a place to get away from temperate Corvallis and see some snow.
Marys Peak offers several miles of multi-use trails and is dog-friendly (on leash only). It's a great place to bring the family for a day of fun, go hiking with friends, or even cuddle with a date while the sun sets. Visitors can revel in her raw natural beauty, bask in her history, and explore her unique geology.
Marys Peak visitors should be aware that the weather up on the peak can vary dramatically from the Willamette Valley below. Be sure to bring extra layers and rain gear, and be aware that rain can move in fast, bringing high winds with it.
Visitors should also be aware that the roads to Marys Peak from HW-34 are not maintained during the winter, and that the road up to Marys Peak is closed during the winter. Always be on the look out for potentially dangerous conditions, including heavy rains, slides, falling trees and debris, high winds and heavy snowfall.
Always carry the 10 Essentials and pack out what you bring in so everyone can continue to enjoy beautiful Marys Peak.
Photos by Autumn Shrock, Reed Lane Photography, Lainey Morse, and Dan Shryock.
