Spencer Butte Trailhead

The round trip distance from the parking lot to the summit is 2.5 miles, and it’s a moderately difficult trail. The final 0.5 mile to the top has a fairly steep incline and a rocky path. It took about an hour round trip without breaks, with a 5-minute rest at the summit. I’ve visited this place several times, but on this particular hike, I started early in the morning while it was foggy, and descended as the mist began to clear. Thanks to the overcast weather, it wasn’t too hot, but I still broke a good sweat—which made the trail feel even more refreshing. This is always a spot I highly recommend.

Great hike up the trail, well defined so no getting lost. At the top, keep an eye out for poison oak, it's pretty rampant amongst the boulders. Overall this was a fabulous way to work out some stress, breathe and catch some sun for an hour. The view from the top, absolutely 360 picture worthy. Mountains on the horizon, Eugen/Springfield below. I snagged both mountain shots and a nice one of Autzen.

From the parking you have 2 trail options: west route & main route; the West Route is short BUT extremely difficult. Unless you’re in great shape, young & tough stick to the Main route. It’s a favorite hike of mine. Even the Main route (1.06 miles to the top) gets steep at the end-Luckily there are stairs in sections.

One of my favorite hikes. It's beautiful in the way up and at the top. There's a bunch of friendly mountain squirrels, too!

This is a beautiful and challenging hike that offers wide open views at the top. You can choose to do it as an out-and-back route or as a loop. We enjoy taking the main trail for 1 mile up and 1 mile back, along with the ridge line trail that branches off from the main trail. Maps are available at the trailhead. Although this trail is quite popular in Eugene, I've never had any issues finding parking. In late summer, look for blackberries along the way. A posted sign indicates that bikes should yield to runners, but I have never seen mountain bikers on this trail. Enjoy your hike!

We hiked on Monday, experiencing a bit of rain. It was my first time, and the view was absolutely stunning!

We went here in the evening on a weekday. Huge parking lot and parking was easy. We chose to do the out and back on the relatively easier route that was moderate for us due to the incline. There is a loop that is supposed to be more difficult and will try that another time. The peak is ~1.1 miles making the round trip 2.2 miles. Lot of trees the initial portion so well shaded. Once you get above the treetop there are a bunch of stairs to climb. Views from the flat top are beautiful and worth sitting down and taking a break. Return seemed faster and easier in general.

This is a very difficult trail if starting to the left if you're over 60. We're in our early 70s and thankfully survived it! It felt like a great achievement, however; the rock climbing was a challenge I wouldn't repeat, nor recommend. The rest of the trail leading clockwise going down was very easy. Spectacular views

Well, I'm an idiot and I took my 8 and 11 year olds up the hard way because they were so full of energy. TERRIBLE mistake. It was slippery and way too dangerous for kids. That's on me. I would say that on a dryer day, that level of excitement would be perfect for someone younger than 40, but older than 15. It was beautiful. I just wish there had been more of a warning.

pretty good trail, lots of people so i felt safe enough to finish the hike after sunset

A well used trail just outside of the city. The one mile walk uphill was pleasant and worth the view. The tall pine trees look like chopsticks thrust into the ground. The fall foliage brightened up the trail. The crest is a contrast with rock formations offering a great overlook of the city. I entered through Williamette Rd. Bear in mind, Google GPS misses the main parking lot by a quarter of a mile.

I met a new friend while in Eugene who immediately asked if I wanted to go on an early morning hike with her and her dog. Um yes, did we just become best friends?! We met up at 9am and headed over to the Butte. I suppose if you get here early enough there is plenty of parking. Dogs are welcome on the trail on leash. The hike is tough for the unexperienced. Especially at the end. When you are almost to the top there are these steps carved out of stone that are incredible. The top is so beautiful. This view affords you miles of view even in a mildly cloudy morning. Along the trail there are beautiful mushrooms and flowers and ferns and fallen logs. I hope I didn't annoy my friend with my constant photo taking. The things to see in the forest are not things I get to see everyday. If you're into hiking at all this is one you should do if you're in Eugene.

City of Eugene COVID-19 guidelines: "Practice social distancing in our natural areas by slowing down and being alert for other trail users, avoiding crowded trailheads, and keeping dogs on-leash." Yes, this trail is very popular! There are portable bathroom at the start of the trail head. Dog friendly trail must be leashed. Please pickup your dog mess and take it with you, seriously. The hiking path has built in rock stairs. Trail near the top has been widen and easier to walk up. Great area to just take all the surrounding beauty this area offers. Be careful not to touch those nasty poison oaks along the trails. Especially hiking the summit areas. Oh, if you bring food to eat at the top please take your trash with you. Help keep Oregon trails beautiful for everyone!

I love all the different hiking options that are around the Eugene area, especially this one. I know I have already reviewed this trail in the past but Spencer's Butte has been really helpful for me during the COVID-19 crises. One those days when I am feeling claustrophobic and in need of some Vitamin D, I head to Spencer's for a quick hike. It's difficult to maintain a 6 feet distance from everyone, especially on the stair portion. I'll probably have to start wearing a mask when I go now just to add that extra layer of protection.

I'm not the biggest fan of hiking. My girlfriend on the other hand may actually be the biggest fan of hiking. She loves hiking more than any sports team I'll ever love. When we visited Eugene, I felt like it was only right that I take her to the only hiking spot I knew there. What I like about Spencer's Butte, besides the fact that it sounds like Spencer's Butt, is that it doesn't feel like a hike. It's relatively short and when you get to the top, it's beautiful. We went on a rainy day, which in Eugene it would have been odd if it was any other day. When we got to the top, the view completely outweighed my inability to feel my hands or toes. I hope that in the future, all other hikes can model themselves after this hike because then I would love hiking.

This hike is much much steeper than I imagined. Even as a hiker, it was hard on my quads and my lungs. Be prepared for fast elevation gain. Bring water, and a sweater if you're going to be up for the sunset. With that said, one of the most beautiful sunsets I have ever seen. Once the sun did set, you could see all the lights in the city which is one of my favorite views in the world. Also bring a flash light, as it is very dark on the way down without one.

Spencer's Butte is a great hike takes less than an hour. I like the views here as they are mostly agricultural at the top. The hike itself is made mostly of switch backs on a well maintained trail going up the butte. The parking lot is surveilled and paved. No parking fees and has potty potty's on sight. It can get rather busy during the lunch hours but still plenty of space. The path is well covered by tree canopy so on a hotter day this hike would still be pleasant. My 4 year old and 8 year old did this hike with my wife and I just fine. The only down side is that people tend to little Ron this hike for some reason. Had to pick some things up last time we were there. All in all good quick easy hike.

I had not gone hiking here in many years because I was afraid of an old knee injury from skiing when I was younger. I always remembered the gorgeous views from the top. I am impressed with the new renovations they have done such as the new steps up by the top. That is a great bonus. What a great work out, and you get the beautiful scenery with it!

Great hike. I always feel safe and respected in the trails. Just know, the rock steps near the top can get real slippery due to pebbles. I've never fallen but I've seen people slip. It's scary for them.

We decided to take the 1 mile hike to the top. The trail is well maintained with signs now to socially distance. The trees keep this trail nice and cool for almost all of the trail. It is better to go early in the morning since it was not crowded when we went. Their are several sets of stairs that lead to the top. The trail is also dog friendly. The views from the top are very nice. The 1000 ft incline produced a great workout. You can bring lunch or pack for a picnic to enjoy once you get to the top.

Spencer Butte is an iconic hike that leads to a beautiful and expansive view at the top of he trail. There are a couple different trails you can take but I've only done the one on your right once you get to the main parking lot. The hike is about 1.5 miles to the top and then you go back the same way unless you take a different trail down. I went on a really rainy and foggy day so I didn't get a chance to see the view but I admired all of the trees and plant life along the trail. The trail is narrow at times and a little steep at some points but there's enough variety that you get a little break from the steep inclines. Locals come here for a nice hike and I believe dogs are allowed on leash. There are bathrooms near the parking lot as well. I recommend this hike to locals and tourists alike! If you are super out of shape this hike can be hard to do without taking short breaks but if you take your time and go at your own speed you'll be happy when you made it to the top!

We are in love with the park!!! The view from the summit is incredible. We take the difficult route up and the easier one down. Coming from San Diego we really appreciate the greenery and lush landscape. We will be back next year,

Love it every time! We are blessed to live less than 5 minutes from the base. Both sides are enjoyable hikes. The harder side is indeed harder. Nearing the top there are a few hand over foot climbing spots. Lots of fun with our dog as well.

This is a great place to hike considering the proximity to Eugene. The summit at the top is a great payoff to this steep hike with panorama views of Eugene, Springfield, the Coastal Range, the Cascades as well as the rugged terrain to the south. The beginning of the trail at Spencer Butte Park is well signed and the map provides a good overview of how the trail will curl around the butte. I do not like the shorter trail to the top as it is incredibly steep and suggest that it only be taken on the way up as it is easy to lose one's footing on the way down. As far as the the longer 1.08 mile trail, it gains ground less rapidly, so it's easier to look around on the way and take in your surroundings. Right before the treeline to the top the trail gets really rocky and it's hard to keep track of the trail, even though they have markers periodically embedded in the rock. I was really close to giving this five stars, particularly since there is no use fee and it would be easy to incorporate a hike up the trail in some sort of workout regimen. What detracts from it is the overly steep shorter trail, and the poor signage in the rocky area. Most people will opt to start a hike at Spencer Butte Park itself, however I would urge hikers looking for something a little more challenging to start at the Willamette Street trailhead. It starts out in a fairly open area, but rapidly gets secluded (for the most part) and makes for a 5 mile round trip. The numerous other starting points for trails that ultimately leads to Spencer Butte is impressive, and keeps it fresh for locals that frequently want to take a hike close to home. I highly recommend bringing out of town friends and family on this short hike and they will be amazed at the view they are rewarded with at the top!

This place was packed a couple of weekends ago! A nice, sunny day in the middle of Winter. Plenty of friendly folks, kids and dogs getting in some great views and exercise. I really believe this is easier to climb than Mount Pisgah even though it's elevation is higher. I usually park at the far lot on Willamette Street (The Spencer Butte Park parking lot). There are other trails but I've always enjoyed going up the back side and the views on the way up to the West and South are great! Up to it? Give it a go!

This is as good as it gets when it comes to hiking in Eugene, this trail gets the heart pumping at the end of the hike up the hill you're presenting with some breathtaking views. The first thing that comes to mind since you're in Oregon is "Lewis & Clark", even though they didn't come near Eugene on their way to the pacific but you can imagine they experienced similar views during the Oregon part of their journey. Definitely worth checking out and on a nice day bring some water since it's a pretty steep hike at certain points and you're likely to start craving a drink. I'd recommend bringing a book & camera as well since it's a great place to chill and read while taking the odd snapshot of the view. Can't wait to hike this trail next time I'm in Eugene.

Spencer Butte was one of the first hikes we took after settling into Eugene. We heard rave reviews before we left and weren't disappointed! + Dog friendly + Well marked trails w/mileage + 2 trailheads (Fox Hollow & Spencer Butte) + Great cardio workout to reach the very top + Beautiful views of Eugene We all had a great time hiking to the top of Spencer Butte and will be back often. We'd love to take a picnic lunch and enjoy it while taking in the view.

It is a fantastic trail - very easy to finish but provides a great view. It's location is very convenient for Eugene residents. The reason I cannot give five stars is not because of the the place but the people who visit Spencer Butte. The place is pretty popular and thus tends to be fairly busy during weekends. I increasingly see a lot of litter and broken glass on the top and dog poop bags along the way. Also, many people just unleash their dogs - which can be very inconvenient and sometimes dangerous for other people. I wish people would respect the park rules and their environment more.

What a great 2.2 mile round trip hike with spectacular views! This hike is perfect for a quick workout if you like a gradual to steep uphill trek (downhill on the way back). I went on a Thursday morning before 9am and I only ran into a few people. I did however notice that the parking lot was 5x as full by the time I got back. Probably best to do this one early AM or late sunset??

Beautiful hike and an even better view at the top. ***Make sure you know which trail you're taking, my girlfriend and I ended up on the difficult trail. We're both in moderate shape and managed through it with tennis shoes and our dog, but it was definitely a challenge. We took the other trail down, it was significantly easier. Both of us look forward to our next hike there. *****It rained the day before we went, the more challenging trail was very slippery/muddy at certain locations.

So I should first preface this with the fact that I am not a hardcore hiker (or a hiker at all really!). The extent of my hiking is pretty much Land's End in SF and the Viennese Alps in Austria. I hiked Spencer Butte with a friend this past Sunday, and it was the perfect day for a hike! The sun was actually out, which is a rarity here in Eugene. My recommendation to anyone hiking here is to dress in layers (I was cold at first but after climbing for a while I worked up a sweat) and bring plenty of water. Nike sneakers were sufficient, and the trail is well marked and not too rocky. Being an amateur hiker, I almost didn't think I was going to make it to the top once we reached the steep stairs towards the summit, but I made it! The view at the top was definitely worth it. You can see Autzen Stadium, mountains, trees, and all that nature-y goodness. Hiking down Spencer Butte is way easier than going up, so if you're exhausted by the time you make it to the top, have no fear!

10 million stars for the hike, 6 million stars for its proximity to town, and 2 stars for the crowd & often off-leash dogs. The math comes out to a 4 star average (trust me, these are high level calculations). The length of your hike depends on whether you're taking the Main Trail (1.08 miles to the summit) or the West Route (a steeper 0.6 miles/700 ft gain to the summit). Both lead you through scenic trails bursting with lichen-covered Douglas firs, ferns, rhododendrons, wildflowers, and yes, some (but not too much) poison ivy. Just as you're starting to feel winded, you find yourself 2.055 feet above sea level, with a breathtaking 360 degree panorama of the Willamette Valley and the Cascade Range, and lots of rocky slabs for picnics. The Butte hikes are part of the larger Ridgeline Trail system, which spans Eugene's southern edge over 12 miles of well-maintained trail. Those looking for a longer hike (or mountain biking trails) can start their hike at Fox Hollow Trailhead. I always enjoy the view atop the Butte, but as a dog owner, I cannot always hike the trail. It being a popular destination, there are often other hikers who off-leash their dogs on the trail. This unfortunately means that on gorgeous days, I have to leave my dog at home to hike the Butte, and on rainy days, I sometimes still have to turn back at the trailhead, when I see other dogs roaming the parking lot off-leash. Canine friends aside, it still gets crowded on the trail, but conversations have always been friendly & enjoyable (the prospect of a gorgeous view puts everyone in a good mood!) :) If you're in town for 36 hours or less, this is a fantastic destination.

This is a great hike. We took the long route and it's definitely a workout. There were quite a few people there on the weekend, but it was well worth it.

One of my favorite hikes. I used to come here daily after work. The view is remarkable. I would rate the intensity as mild/moderate. Be aware that there are stairs near the top that require a little bit of caution.

Great hike. Lots to see and heavily trafficked so you're never alone which can be a good or bad thing depending on what you want. Can get very muddy. Restrooms available. Amazing view at the top!!!

Spencer Butte Trail:  Disclaimer, generally this is a mild hike with a steady inline and no steps or rock climbing. After meeting our soon to be best friends at Sam Bonds, they decided that a late evening hike was a good idea. They told us that it was just an easy, after dinner hike that they often did. After at least 4 craft beers, wearing skinny jeans and converse shoes, I practically had to be pushed up the mountain. I struggled the whole way up on the steady incline and was surprised to find out the family tradition when we reached the summit. They pulled out a canteen of tequila and poured us all a shot on the rock displaying the visible constellations from the peak of our hike. Following out shots, we all received either a flashlight or headlamp and began our adventure down the mountain in the dark. Due to improper clothing, slight intoxication and lack of eccentric musculature control from drinking beer instead of working out, I chose to run down the mountain, although strongly discouraged by my hiking companions. I survived with no injuries and told them to never make me hike while intoxicated ever again. Visit travelptswithacraftbeerprob.wordpress.com for more Eugene info

Busy but good. There's good variety in the trail, it's short but you'll get a great workout, you'll always meet adorable dogs, and when you get to the top it's a good place for lunch, relaxing with a book, or chatting with friends. There is a lot of poison oak at the top so be careful. Overall it's safe and the view at the top is a full 360 with mountains and the city of Eugene.

Take a hike to the top of that guy Spencer's Butte where the squirrels are not afraid to come right up to you, and dont touch that poison ivy because i heard it itches kinda like right now ive got the itch to cruise over to Spencer and go Take a hike.

Great hike. Short and sweet with some pretty intense rock climbing (if you're in rain boots like I was) ... (yes, I'm from LA, deal with it!). We managed to get some time in between rain storms and the view was incredible. It may have been a cold and icy hike up to the top, but it was all worth it. Climbing the summit would have been easier with snow gloves since I was holding a camera in one hand, and trying to hang onto snowy rocks with the other. Oh well. I think this hike really made this trip. So, if you are in Eugene, you MUST get up there. I am so glad we did.

I did this hike a few years ago and went on one of the trails that was a lot more gradual. I loved that hike and had a great time. My mom and I decided to take my dog and go for a hike to get out and get some fresh air. I suggested we hike Spencer Butte. We went to the Spencer Butte trailhead (there are three different trail heads I believe) Anyways, we set off and you could go the longer a little over a mile trail, or go on the steep .6 mile trail. Of course we chose the shorter one..,. Bad idea! It's very steep and muddy. Beautiful views along the way, but next time I will take the scenic trail.

A favorite hiking spot for many in the area, Spencer's Butte provides a fantastic view once reaching the summit. The trail is fairly moderate in difficulty and an overall great workout. Plenty of dogs and smiley people at all times along the trail. Come on sunny days to see all of Eugene and even Autzen Stadium if you look hard enough! My personal favorite hike here was completing the hike early in the A.M. and watching the sunrise through the cloud cover - a breathtaking experience.

Apart from the fact that there seems to *always* be a small group of oddly rude people on the summit (each of the maybe eight times I've done this hike), it's easy-ish & a "must do" in the Eugene area. Especially highly recommended in autumn, when the leaves falling on the way up are comparable to the final view itself!

Woohoo! I'm glad my friend and I decided to hike this amazing place before I left Eugene. It's a MUST hike if you are visiting Eugene. There are three levels (easy, medium, and hard) and the distance ranges from 0.6mi to 2.5mi to the top, each way. My friend and I started at Ridgeline Trail and it was about 1000 ft elevation from the start of the trail. Most of the trail is not steep until the last few hundred yards or so to the top of the butte. The view from the butte is amazing and I would come to this place every weekend if it was in my backyard. AMAZING!

This is a legit half hour to forty five minute hike up to one of the best views of Eugene and surrounding hills. A quick 10 minutes outside of town straight up Willamette Street it is well worth the effort. The path leaves the parking lot and curls around the backside of the hill through some great shaded woods and sunny meadows. Emerging from the tree canopy is the craggy rock top of the butte with plenty of spots to just sit and check out the view. Things to consider: -poison oak is prevalent -muddy trails prevalent early in the season -unsupervised parking lot

I will do this every time I come to Eugene... if time allows. I really enjoyed this hike. It's a beautiful trail and view. Lots of folks and kiddos out when we went... early... on a Sunday morning. It was nice to see people all out with a common goal. :)

Great view and hike as always. A lot of litter and broken glass on the top and dog poop bags along the way. I wish people would respect the park rules and their environment more

I want to be one of the few to give this less than 5 stars. My reason? Poison Oak and the lack of any transfigured deity when you reach the top, (but mostly just to be an iconoclast). Other than that it's pretty awesome. I take my 3 sons (around kindergarten age) up here (the short route, Willamette) at least once a season. They love it. It's always filled with cartoonishly smiling and attractive people. A little scramble at the top, good views. Even when it's overcast, sometimes you can see over the clouds, which is awesome.

Easy hike, safe trails and kid/pet friendly! The view at the top is one of the best in Eugene! Hiking here is always a big hit with my family and friends! It gets a bit steep at the too but is safe, with stone staircases and handrails but into the trail. Great picnic spots at the top!

One of the best hikes I've had the pleasure of completing. Visited with my uncle, cousin, and best friend and it was great time. We incidentally ended up picking the difficult trail to the summit, which was rigorous as far as the level of cardio (lots of heavy breathing) but doesn't require any technical climbing skill. I love to climb so this trail was so much fun for me and the view from the summit more than makes up for any exertion you might feel.

I've been a few times and have always enjoyed it here. It's a pretty good climb even for a fat kid :) It's always best on a sunny day (naturally) with a good friend or two.. enjoy the green grass and blue skies ;)

Spencer Butte is a great place to go hiking nearly year round except for the fall and winter months when rain is heavy. Picnic spots are great and although the hills are steep they are climbable with spectacular valley views once you reach the top. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times while in the park. Poison Oak is prevalent at the top of Spencer's Butte. In the spring and summer months, rattlesnakes are common near the top of the mountain. Be cautious and watch where you walk. Wear knee high snake boots with long pants and do not walk across across logs or rocks without first looking on the other side. If you see a snake, stop and move at least 20 feet away from feet it. Follow these safety tips and you will be fine.

This trail was beautiful and challenging (in a good way). My puppy loved it and it was beautiful scenery with green everywhere and tall trees! And the view at the top is rewarding! I plan on going again.

A majority of the trail construction work is done and it's a much better hike at the top, and easier to avoid the poison oak. They've done a nice job of cutting steps in many places into the rock. Will get 5 stars once the work is done!

Love walking and hiking up there. I like that however maintains it keeps it clean and tidy. The views from the top are great to see. All the green 360 degrees around me. I love seeing the sunsets and oregon sky on falls night.

I absolutely LOVE Spencer Butte. Today my husband and I went on this hike for the first time. On our way up we went on the difficult path. Holy, what a work out! The view on top is absolutely breath taking. Totally worth the climb! We went down the newly renovated path, so much easier than the climb up. We will definitely be taking that path on the way up from now on. Spencer Butte is a must if you want to see beautiful views of Oregon.

A beautiful scenery that shows off some of Eugene's highlights. An easy hike that everybody in Eugene should take

Beautiful view gained from a pretty short hike! Mind you it is pretty steep, but that's good for the glutes anyway! You'll want to stay and hang out at the top for a while, so bring a lunch. Lots of nice places to sit down and take it in. Just make sure you pack your trash after