Stein Butte Trail #929

Named for one of the many prospectors who mined in this vicinity during the early gold rush years of the 1850s and 1860s, the Stein Butte Trail features areas of historical and scenic interests. Evidence of hydraulic, surface and lode mining activity that dates from the turn of the century is present along the trail.

Beginning at Seattle Bar Day Use Area, the trail passes underneath the Applegate Road bridge, and crosses Manzanita Creek Road (FS Road 1041). Leaving the road, the trail climbs steadily through a mixed conifer forest at a moderate grade for 2.5 miles to Elliott Ridge. Views from the ridge display the dramatic differences between the dark greens of forests on the north slopes, and the pale green and brown tones of the shrub- and grass-dominated southerly slopes. The trail continues along the ridge to a crest just below Stein Butte. A short side trail to the top of Stein Butte offers excellent vistas of the Red Buttes Wilderness and the Siskiyou Crest.

A loop can be made by leaving the ridgeline at the trail junction, approximately 0.3 miles east of the side trail, at the top of Stein Butte. At this junction, follow the New London Trail #928 (Length: 2.6 miles) down the relatively steep grade to Elliott Creek Road (FS Road 1050). Turn right at the trailhead and follow the road to return to Seattle Bar.

Considerations: Prepare for your hike! Carry plenty of water, as there is no water along this trail.

As this is a multi-user trail, prepare to yield to other user groups.

• Stein Butte Trail Recreation Opportunity Guide, with map (PDF)

At a Glance