Books to Balsa Trail
A short, somewhat steep, and wonderful trail connects Clatsop Community College to Coxcomb Hill and the Astoria Column.
There is no shortage of Books at the College, and Balsa literally falls from the sky at the Column (in the form of popular gliders purchased at the gift shop and launched from the top of the tower).
Books (Clatsop Community College)
Balsa (The Astoria Column)
Staging area for the next flight
You can hike up from the College...
Park here, just below Clatsop Community College
...Or, hike down from the Astoria Column. Just head down the grassy area and watch for the trailhead on your right.
If you heed the trailhead sign, be sure to come only after dark! Actually, I think they intended to say the trail is only open during daylight hours!
Hilarious trailhead sign
Watch for the watchful hikers!
GPS reception is spotty in the forest, so don't hesitate to use the hint.
Enjoy the Column and hiking the many great trails on Coxcomb Hill!
Admission to the Column is free, but there is a $5 parking fee.