Erratic Rock State Natural Site Oregon
Discover Erratic Rock, a massive boulder carried by ancient glacial floods from Montana to Oregon. A short hike reveals this geological marvel and sce...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Erratic Rock State Natural Site Oregon
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Erratic Rock, a massive boulder carried by ancient glacial floods from Montana to Oregon. A short hike reveals this geological marvel and scenic farmland views.
"A neat little place just west of McMinville featuring the largest Missoula Flood erratic in the Willamette Valley."
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is very limited.
🐍 Watch for Poison Oak
Be cautious of poison oak along the trail edges.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Erratic Rock
Summit of the hill
A colossal boulder, a testament to ancient glacial floods, offering a unique geological marvel.
Scenic Farmland Views
Along the trail and at the summit
Panoramic vistas of rolling vineyards and agricultural landscapes of Yamhill County.
Wild Edibles Trail
Paved trail leading to the rock
A short, paved path lined with choke cherries, blackberries, apples, and pears.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glacial Giant's Tale
Best Time to Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is very limited.
🐍 Watch for Poison Oak
Be cautious of poison oak along the trail edges.
i need to see a very big rock. help me
🍎 Seasonal Fruit
Visit during harvest season for a chance to see or pick fruit.
🥾 Easy Hike
The paved trail is short and mostly gentle, with a brief steep section.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking
Arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking is very limited.
🐍 Watch for Poison Oak
Be cautious of poison oak along the trail edges.
🍎 Seasonal Fruit
Visit during harvest season for a chance to see or pick fruit.
🥾 Easy Hike
The paved trail is short and mostly gentle, with a brief steep section.
🧺 Picnic Spot
A single picnic table is available at the top for a scenic snack break.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Erratic Rock a fascinating geological curiosity and a pleasant, short stop with nice farmland views. While not a destination to travel far for, it's highly recommended as a quick detour when in the McMinnville area. The easy hike and unique boulder make it a worthwhile experience for those seeking a glimpse into Oregon's ancient past.
"For years we have seen signs on the main highway for the Erratic Road. Today, we went.
I know an erratic rock is a driven by glaciation and the breaking of ice dams leading to rocks to travel. This one is from present day Montana.
There are 3 parking spots near a small farm stand.
A paved trail between two century farms is lined with choke cherries, blackberries, apples, pears, plums and grapes grown in the windbreak between the two farms.
There is poison oak in the brush, so be wary.
We also so a 3.5 foot gopher snake. The trail is a little longer than a quarter of the mile up a hill. The trail heads north then west.
An acre of cleared land is at the end of the trail with the Erratic Rock and a single picnic table.
The views are nice. The rock is a big rock."
Rain Dog
"A couple of Sundays ago I took my dog Sophie out for a little hike to Glacial Erratic Rock near McMinnville, Oregon, Now I have been here before myself but this would be Sophie's first time and she has such a high level of energy that I thought it would be good for her. Once we got to the top; we played around up there for a little bit and I let her off the leash so she could climb on top of the rock; but she was more concerned with sniffing all the gopher holes around there. This is one of my favorite hikes near where I live because it is close, convenient, short, and great for the whole family and there is a little picnic table up top by the big rock and it has a great view of the surrounding vineyards of Yamhill County near the Sheridan and McMinnville area. Now there is a limited amount of parking space but but usually every time I've been out here it's not that crowded so that's a plus!!!"
Chris Booth
"Neat little place just west of McMinville that features presumably the largest Missoula Flood erratic in the Willamette Valley. Easily accessible from the small parking area via a quarter-mile walk on a paved trail, the erratic is located on a hill, which also has nice views. I'm not sure it's worth driving here just for this place, but it is absolutely recommended to stop by when in the area or on the way to or from the coast."
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What People Like
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Erratic Rock is located west of McMinnville, Oregon. Follow signs for Erratic Road from the main highway. There's a small parking area near a farm stand.
Yes, signs for Erratic Road will guide you. The site itself is a short walk from the parking area.
The most direct route is typically via Highway 18, then taking local roads towards Erratic Road.
Absolutely! It's a recommended stop if you're in the area or traveling to or from the Oregon coast.
Public transportation options are very limited for this rural location. Driving is the most practical way to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Erratic Rock State Natural Site is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
The site is generally open during daylight hours. There are no specific posted hours, but it's an outdoor natural area.
There is no entrance fee to access Erratic Rock State Natural Site.
While there are no official hours, it's best to visit during daylight for safety and to enjoy the views.
No booking is required. It's a first-come, first-served natural site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike is a short, paved trail, approximately a quarter-mile long, leading up to the rock.
You can explore the large glacial erratic boulder, enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding farmland, and take a short walk on the paved trail.
No, there are no public restrooms available at the site.
The trail is paved but has a steep section, which might make it challenging for some wheelchairs or strollers.
You might spot gopher snakes and various birds. Be aware of poison oak in the brush.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the massive boulder itself, the panoramic farmland views, and the seasonal fruit trees along the trail.
Yes, the rolling hills and vineyards offer beautiful landscape photography subjects, especially during golden hour.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local FAA guidelines and any posted rules at the site before flying.
Early morning or late afternoon light provides the best conditions for capturing the landscape and the rock.
No specific restrictions are noted, but always be respectful of the natural environment and any private property nearby.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pro-tip: Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities on-site. The limited parking means it's best to visit during off-peak hours to avoid disappointment.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Geologists
Don't miss: Taking time to appreciate the scale of the boulder and its improbable journey. Consider visiting during different seasons to see how the landscape changes.
📸 Photographers
Best shots: The panoramic view from the summit, close-ups of the boulder's texture, and the fruit trees framing the farmland.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel: Erratic Rock
The journey of this rock is a fascinating story of ancient cataclysms. It's not just a big rock; it's a tangible piece of prehistoric Oregon, a silent witness to a dramatic past. Visitors often express awe at its sheer scale and the improbable journey it undertook.
The Scenic Hike and Surroundings
While the hike is generally easy, there is a short, steeper section as you approach the summit. Be mindful of poison oak that can grow in the brush along the trail's edges. At the top, a single picnic table provides a spot to rest and enjoy the panoramic scenery.
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