Cole Mountain Quarry is a surface mining quarry operated by the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) in Clatsop County, Oregon. Colloquially called “The Rock Quarry” or “The Rock Pit”, the site is an aggregate source for ODF’s forest roads during logging operations in the area.
When not being actively mined, the rock quarry is frequently used by the public for a host of activities including acting as a base camp for hunters and OHV operators, or as a location for target practice. Because of its secluded location, the pit is also occasionally used as an illegal dumping site for trash and the deteriorated remnants from target practice, and vandalism of unattended machinery.
The quarry has changed throughout the years as more aggregate was extracted, and stockpiles have grown, shrunk, and moved. Historically, motorcycle and ATV trails were throughout the quarry site, including a trail all around the quarry which neared the back rim of the quarry, and over the stockpiles. Much of the site has become overgrown with Alder trees and Scotch Broom.
Photos
Here are some photos of the Cole Mountain Quarry:
Quarry Location and Directions
Located within Clatsop County, Oregon, the Cole Mountain Quarry is approximately 9 miles south of the Necanicum Junction of US-26 and OR-53. It is located in both sections 14 and 23 of Township 4 North, Range 9 West from the Willamette Principal Meridian.
Directions
There are two primary ways to get to the Cole Mountain Quarry – from OR-53 in the west, and from Hamlet to the east.
Update: The route from OR-53 is currently gated off at the two available roads from that highway. (Updated April 2024)
From OR-53: Approximately 7 miles south of the US-26, turn east on to North Fork Road and immediately keep left onto Cole Mountain Road. When you come to a large intersection, at 1.2 miles, go straight through (not up the steep hill). After 0.5 more miles, turn left. You are now at the quarry.
From Hamlet: Beginning near the Hamlet Schoolhouse, turn south onto Hill Road. When you come to a “Y” in the road, at 2 miles, turn right which continues as Hill Road/Cole Mountain Road. Continue on Cole Mountain Road for 3 miles, turn right. You are now at the quarry.