Wilson River Trail: Kings Mtn Trailhead to Jones Creek Trailhead

Start at the Kings Mtn Trailhead, which has a parking lot and a vault toilet. This trailhead is popular, so arrive early to get a spot. Leave a car at the Jones Creek Trailhead before continuing on to Kings Mtn if you're planning to shuttle. Start out hiking along the Wilson River, up-slope and looking down on it. The sounds of the highway can be loud. The trail turns uphill as you climb towards the first ridge. The top of the ridge doesn't offer much for views, but as you drop down the other side you loose the highway noise. Work your way slowly uphill as you follow the outside edge of the Lester Creek tributary valley. At the end of the valley there are some fantastic views from rocky outcroppings. You can see the whole Lester Creek valley stretched out before you. Watch out for the sharp cliffs if you have dogs or children. Follow the dry, rocky cliffs around the edge as you head downhill towards the fork of the Wilson River. Cross the fork at the fantastic wooden footbridge. This is very close to the Diamond Mill OHV area, so don't be surprised to hear ATV and other motor noises. Turn to follow the Wilson River downstream and keep an eye out to your left for Lester Creek Falls on the other side of the river. There is a short side trail that gives you a better view.You'll have to cross a state forest road twice, so keep an eye out for traffic. Another short uphill climb through a Douglas Fir plantation (planted after the Tillamook Burn) will bring you through to the end.