Mount Baldy: A Steady Ridgeline Climb with Sweeping Views of Eugene

Mount Baldy rises on the southeast edge of Eugene, forming one of the anchor points of the Ridgeline Trail System. At 1,450 feet, it’s not the tallest peak in the area, but its mix of open grassy slopes, shaded forest, and sweeping summit views make it a favorite for quick hikes and trail runs. The climb is short but steady, perfect for a hill workout or a morning summit jog before work.

The Baldy Trail ascends through a patchwork of oak and fir, with switchbacks that keep the grade consistent. Near the top, the trees give way to meadows where wildflowers bloom in spring and golden grasses wave in summer. The summit itself is a wide-open perch with panoramic views of Spencer Butte, the Willamette Valley, and the Cascades. Runners often link Baldy into longer Ridgeline routes, combining it with Fox Hollow or Spencer Butte for a well-rounded workout with plenty of elevation gain.

Access is straightforward, with a small parking lot at the 55th Street trailhead and roadside spots nearby. The trail is well maintained by the City of Eugene, and signage makes it easy to follow. On weekends it’s a busy destination for hikers, but on weekdays you may have the summit to yourself. Compact, accessible, and rewarding, Mount Baldy is proof that big views don’t always require big miles.