Hood, with its first dusting of autumn snow, 2013 September 26. Open mid-July through October. Fri 09/11 (2.9 miles) Walk around Kincaid park Thu 09/10 (6.8 miles) Hike near Flat Top The campsites are along the Elk Cove Trail, so after crossing the creek we turned down there and started looking. Up to the right are the snag-populated slopes of the Dollar Lake Burn. Turn right at the general store onto Cooper Spur road and continue for another mile. Also be sure to walk to the west side of the cove, where an icy Cove Creek rambles through the meadows. The destination is worth the journey though and the burn affords some great views both in front and behind you. ELK Cove was amazing, can't wait till my next time up when I will do it as an out and back. Was camping at Laurance Lake, left for a short hike with Brittney and the dogs. Views open up west to Vista Ridge and both Owl Point and Katsuk Point become visible. Coming down Pinnacle Ridge was fine but - as mentioned in other posts - muddy in spots, exposed, and steeper & more overgrown vs Elk Cove Trail. Highly recommend!! Didn’t get up onto the top spur because it’s too sketch for canines. The well-graded, moderate climb to timberline is through forests scorched by the 2011 Dollar Lake Fire, and the stunning approach to Elk Cove from “99 Ridge” is one of the most spectacular mountain vistas anywhere. True it is not a real loop but I think it’s just a short walk on the gravel road back to the trailhead if you come down the pinnacle ridge side, although I wasn’t totally sure so I bushwhacked back to my car. Turn left on Clear Creek road (across from McIsaacs Market) and drive south for approximately five miles to Road 2840 (Laurence Lake Road). We later discovered that it was literally a toilet, with tp bits scattered under the trees near our site. The goal was really just to get a few miles under our belt and get as far as Meadows or Newton Creek, before heading on to Elk Cove the next day. 10.5 miles / 2200 feet. This is a moderate one way trail to Elk Cove Camp in Mount Hood National Forest. Elk Cove is a meadow in the Mount Hood Wilderness on the north side of Mount Hood in the U.S. state of Oregon. Timberline National Historic Trail #600 (USFS), Elk Cove & Pinnacle Ridge (Oregon Adventures), https://www.oregonhikers.org/w/index.php?title=Elk_Cove_Hike&oldid=96657, Backpackable: Yes—connects to the Timberline Trail. Elk Cove is tucked away in a remote area of Mt. Hood far from any roads, ski areas or cabins and it is this seclusion that gives it its charm. Hiked 7/18/20. I did have a 37lb pack on and was able to make it to the top. I did this hike 7-11-20. The first section of our Timberline Trail trip took us from Timberline Lodge to Elk Cove. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. Elk Cove Trail is a 9.3 mile lightly trafficked loop trail located near Mount Hood Parkdale, Oregon that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. Directions from Hood River: Travel south on Highway 35 for approximately 14 miles to the community of Mount Hood. We were lucky with an overcast sky in the morning, which is pretty rare for summer. Follow this rough road another mile and the trail begins at a bend in the road. Switchback up five times in a shady patch of Douglas-firs that experienced no crown fire, and then traverse up onto the crest of the ridge, which was thoroughly burned. Continue another mile further to a road junction and turn left onto Road 650 (a right turn heads to the Pinnacle Ridge trail). The trail route was thoroughly scorched in the 2011 Dollar Lake Fire, and the forest suffered crown fire for most of the trail’s length. We hiked just the Elk Cove trail from the TH as an out & back. Trail routing and conditions are subject to change. Just follow the road at the end. Please. Elk Cove Hike If you have ever hiked the 40 mile long Timberline Trail that circumnavigates Mt. (no bridge) I found this crossing to be easy and the logs were sturdy. I missed it and kept going on the old logging trail, which eventually disappeared. Subalpine firs and mountain hemlocks form tree islands, and clumps of mountain ash glow with red-orange pomes (berries) in late summer. From the creek, the trail follows an old watercourse, or dry gully, and passes a campsite. Maintenance crews had just cleared about half the blowdows from this past winter so not too much of an obstacle course. The road makes a sharp turn to the right and now young lodgepole pine and manzanita bushes grow on the verge. But, I've decided to present this hike as an alternative route to Barrett Spur, especially for those living on the eastern side of the Cascades. Elk Cove Trail is a 15.0 kilometer lightly trafficked loop trail located near Mount Hood Parkdale, Oregon that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. I didn’t have time to finish this hike since I went off trail for a bit, but it was really beautiful to see the contrast of dead trees with new growth. It was a bit Windy and due to the burn there is not a lot of shade. Drive 2.8 miles, turning right (west) on Lawrence Lake Drive. Nothing to hard to climb or step over. Most all of these types of activities on this page are within 25-60 minutes drive north or south of the Elk Cove Inn. Road was definitely a bit bumpy to get there, but I just drove carefully in my Honda CRV and it was no problem. Hikers are rewarded with close, open views of the north side of Mt. Travel Oregon, 670 Hawthorne St, Suite 240 , Salem, OR, 97301, Phone: 800-547-7842 | http://www.mthood.info/hikingtrails/elkcove631.pdf. This page has been accessed 73,242 times. We just returned from the valley, did not see the any elk at all. Elk Cove Trail is a great way to get into that beautiful north side of Mt. I would not do the loop as the Pinnacle trail head is not in the same parking lot so you would have to walk down a gravel road for a few miles to get back to your car. Higher up, you can see east to the Mill Creek Buttes and Shellrock Mountain on Surveyors Ridge. Elk Cove is such a special place, but don't underestimate this trail - especially if you're a backpacker or have an excited four-legged friend on a leash. After passing Kinnickinnick Campground at Laurence Lake, continue to the left on Road 2840. Young noble firs and mountain hemlocks have taken hold here: in 40 years or so, they will form the canopy. It just isn't worth falling in the creek or injuring yourself. This page was last modified on 5 January 2021, at 00:25. The road when you get to the valley is part paved and part unpaved and narrow. The Dollar Lake fire burned a majority of the shade on these north side trails and this one is no exception, so UV protection is absolutely imperative. Hood then you are familiar with the beautiful meadows of Elk Cove on the north side of the mountain. Decent climb, gorgeous views, some backpackers had camped up at the cove, otherwise only saw a few people the whole time. The trail isn't as popular as many other trails leading to the alpine regions of Mt. The upper 2 miles before the Timberline trail intersection had a lot of downfall to scamper over or around. *** FYI There is no official connection between the Elk Cove and Pinnacle Ridge trailheads. The trail starts by crossing over Pinnacle Creek and then follows an old logging road for about 1.5 miles before entering the … The trail was clearly marked about 1.5 miles up the gravel road (after log crossing) by a rock cairn. Now there are closer views of The Pinnacle to the west and the Hood River Valley to the east, while down to the left is the wide valley bottom of the Coe Branch. Sufficiently enlarged, the lenticular (banner) cloud at the summit has a pinkish tail. If you’re looking for an easier hike to Elk Cove than from Cloud Cap Trailhead, this is a fine option. In her free time, you’ll find her outdoors enjoying one of Oregon’s great hiking trails or rivers. Walking the road back might have been quicker! A short 0.4-mile (0.6-km) trail leads down to the beautiful McClures Beach. The top of Elk Mountain offers a spectacular view of Chilliwack, Cultus Lake, and the surrounding Fraser Valley area. Turn right (west) at an intersection marked for Parkdale. The hike itself begins with a steady incline up the mountain through a beautifully forested area. Elk Cove itself is quite picturesque with views of the north side of Mount Hood. Next time, I’ll go out and back on Elk Cove Tr. Where would you like to hike today? Down in the valley below, the Coe Branch and Compass Creek come together, and you can see Canon Ball Falls, also known as Lower Compass Creek Falls. 9.2 miles with 2,100 ft elevation gain. There are more trailside camps near a sedge spring, which dries up in mid-summer. Hood are on its north flank—on the opposite side of the mountain from the tourist crowds at Timberline Lodge. but after that expect slower going. Look for the rock cairn to go up the trail (it’s about 1.5 miles on the old logging road and then a switchback to a normal trail). Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. on the north side of Mt. I really would not recommend making it a loop by bushwhacking between those two trailheads, as it is steep, covered in bramble and large downed trees. NOT THE LOOP. Miles of flowers in bloom, with reds, yellow and violet flowers disappearing into the distance. Hiking up a lush meadow, you'll see a longer spur leading left down to a secluded campsite. We made time to do one more high altitude hike on Mount Hood before departing for a six week camping trip that will swing through Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, Colorado and Utah. Trail Log: Elk Cove Hike/Log; Hike type: In and out Distance: 9.3 miles round-trip Elevation gain: 2300 feet High point: 5,475 feet Difficulty: Moderate Seasons: July – November Family Friendly: No Backpackable: Yes—connects to the Timberline Trail Crowded: At Elk Cove on weekends Add-on Hikes: Barrett Spur Add-on Hike; Dollar Lake Add-on Hike This is a scenic meadow located within a large alpine basin. A variety of sun-loving plants have colonized the burn here, including Scouler’s willow, bracken, western larch, lodgepole pine, chinquapin, and snow brush. I thought it was fun, but it does slow you down and some might not like it. Off this trail you will notice several small side trails, which typically lead to campsites. A short spur leads left to a rocky outcropping, sometimes called Inspiration Point: this used to be the best vantage point for open views on the trail before the 2011 fire. Lots of down tree scramble- but that’s part of the adventure right? U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map: Self-issued wilderness permit; wilderness rules apply. This is not straight out of the camera; various Aperture controls were invoked. The trail is primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing and is best used from July until October. The Tomales Point area is a popular destination for visitors wishing to view tule elk, birds, and wildflowers.The historic Pierce Point Ranch offers a glimpse into the early dairy ranching days on the peninsula. The flowers at Elk Cove weren’t too shabby either. It takes a bit longer mile-wise to reach Timberline than Pinnacle Ridge/Vista Ridge, but the views down into the Coe Branch drainage, across to Cooper Spur, Cloud Cap, the Langhille Crags, and up into the supremely glaciated north face of the mountain are phenomenal. Meet at the MMC at 8:00 AM. Trail crews have brushed and logged out the first 3 miles (thanks!) Hood. The basin was formed by the Coe Glacier that once pushed through the valley, but disappeared as the glacier retreated. Bugs are definitely in force as you hit the cove, but bug spray should easily take care of that. The trail is primarily used for hiking, bird watching, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. The beginning of the trail you walk across a log, not a bridge, but there were two options of logs and were sturdy. Open 10 am - 5 pm daily Closed: Thanksgiving Day, New Year's Day, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day . Once we got to Elk Cove it made the view just a little more sweet. Where culverts were removed, you’ll need to drop into little dips. The spectacular Coe Glacier dominates the north face of Mount Hood, and craggy Barrett Spur rises like a black wall above the meadows, framing the idyllic scene. First glance at the map this looks like a pleasant loop. Definitely lots of logs fallen over the trail. While there are many approaches to this area, we chose to hike up on the Elk Cove Trailhead near the Laurance Lake Campground. The mountain views were amazing almost all the way up. The route also crosses through several wildflower-filled meadows and avoids fords … Overmountain Victory National Historic Trail Map The park brochure is available in a number of different formats, including audio-description and text-only. Hood. The bug were not to to bad for this time of year. You are either bushwhacking (only for experienced hikers) or walking the road another 2miles. The trail is wide and easy to navigate but the top section is very steep and the loose dirt is … Cross and recross what is now a shallow draw, passing another campsite, and pass into a stand of unburned mountain hemlock. Pretty at the base. If you take it, you’ll still be able to camp at Cairn Basin (around 18 miles in) or Elk Cove (around 21.5 miles in.) Tomales Point (aka Pierce Point) is located at the northern end of Point Reyes National Seashore. There were trees down along the whole trail so lots to climb over. That’s five miles. The route leaves the road at some downed trees, and passes a trail sign. We'll hike up the north flank of Mt. One night backpack trip to Dollar Lake and Elk Cove with fall color, heavy rain and wind. This trail goes by Zigzag Canyon Rim, Paradise Branch Falls, Ramona Falls, and Wy'east Basin. We’ll spend the night at Elk Cove and explore the area. From the meadows we'll enjoy good views of the Coe Glacier and Barrett Spur. From the meadows we'll enjoy good views of the Coe Glacier and Barrett Spur. I opted not to use any but did have it with me just in case it got worse. I’m going back soon and will update. This is by far the most scenic trek on the north side. Whether you’re overnight camping, day hiking, walking or multi-day backpacking, we have hundreds of hikes waiting for you in the … season, the flowers don't get much better anywhere than on this hike to Elk Cove. See other rides. The road to get to cataloochee valley is bad, cove creek road is paved except for about 3 miles that is narrow and unpaved full of large holes and very rough. To start the trail you do cross over a creek via your choice of log. At the traffic light, turn right towards Parkdale. Barrett Spur via Vista Ridge and Wy'east Basin Trail, Tamanawas Falls via East Fork Trail #650 and Elk Meadows Trail #645 [CLOSED], Timberline, Cooper Spur and Tilly Jane Trail, Polallie Ridge Trail to Tilly Jane Ski Trail Loop [CLOSED], http://www.mthood.info/hikingtrails/elkcove631.pdf. 08-01-20 This is one of the easiest graded spur trails on Wy’east. This hidden Eden became even quieter after a glacial flood closed … Amazing views. Arguably the prettiest and quietest timberline meadows at Mt. Backpackers should camp at one of numerous spots in the trees at the east or north ends of the cove, along the Timberline and Elk Cove trails, and not in the fragile meadows. After bushwhacking for a bit I added another 2 miles to the hike on forest roads, uphill, to get back to my truck totaling 11.5 miles. The forecast looked great for the weekend, and I figured that it was my last chance this year to backpack in the subalpine areas on Mount Hood. Hood far from any roads, ski areas or cabins and it is this seclusion that gives it its charm. If you are looking to camp at the top there are a few just before you get to the Timberline trail or once the Elk cove trail meets the timberline trail you can go either direction Left towards the meadow or Right towards the creek and there are plenty of spots. Enjoy, be safe, and always leave no trace. Then follow the road bed, which is being crowded by slide alder on this lower section. It is a popular backpacking area along the Timberline Trail. Huckleberry, fireweed, and bear-grass flourish among the lodgepole pines here. All the flowers were poppin but they won’t be for much longer. Turn left on the Timberline Trail for a few yards for the most sublime view of the mountain rising above acres of wildflowers. Oregon Hikers Field Guide is built as a collaborative effort by its user community. The shrubs and smaller trees are a bit overgrown onto the trail so i would cover your legs for the hike. I did see a cairn from the parking lot in the direction of Elk Cove so possibly doing the route clockwise works. Get another open view of Mount Hood before dropping to a saddle and then rising again. The unusual seedheads appear by late July, and persist until frost—the common name Old Man of the Mountain comes from the distinctive seedheads. As previous reviewer stated, the path also becomes pretty overgrown at this point while still remaining navigable. She travels the globe as brand ambassador for Elk Cove in markets new and old. Around mile 15, you’ll see a cut-off trail, which cuts off some of the mileage as the actual trail loops and backtracks for a few miles. This may be true but I don't suggest doing it counter clockwise as I did. The trail is primarily used for hiking and snowshoeing and is best used from July until October. Be aware there is no trail (that I could find) between Elk Cove and Pinnacle Ridge TH. Keenan, John, Hunter and I left Timberline Lodge at about 5PM on Thursday evening. Not a loop. If you have ever hiked the 40 mile long Timberline Trail that circumnavigates Mt. I had quite a few scratches. Starting at the Pinnacle Ridge TH it gets up at a fairly good pace through an old burn with a lot of snags. You should cross-check against other references before planning a hike. Loved this hike! The Elk Cove Trail #631 is the longest approach trail to the Timberline Trail on the north side of Mount Hood. 2250 feet elevation gain. Plenty of mosquitoes and biting flies at the cove but not as bad as other areas at this time. Trail was good condition until the last .5 mile or so. Difficult (to Dollar Lake) 9 miles round trip. Elk Cove (21 miles): A well-known, heavily trafficked spot (for good reason—it’s truly so beautiful) for both Timberline Trail hikers and overnight backpackers. This spot offers great views of Barret Spur and Mount Hood as well as the Coe Glacier. This trial was also clear and well maintained. Once you get to the meadow it’s great. The Coe Glacier could be clearly seen hanging from the top of Mount Hood, feeding the Coe River. Of the many wildflowers found here, none is as prolific as the western pasque flower, which blooms immediately after snowmelt, and thus before most hikers arrive. Drive this route for another two miles until making a right at Clear Creek Road in the town of Parkdale. 10.5 miles / 2200 feet. After the viewpoint, you’ll drop to another saddle and then wend your way upward again, swishing through patches of huckleberry and bear-grass. Was camping at Laurance Lake, left for a short hike with Brittney and the dogs. Muddy, down trees in path, some snow/ice, used micro sprikes. The Pinnacle stands out on Pinnacle Ridge, across the valley of Pinnacle Creek. 631 Sep 27, 2013 6 Mt. Good water, great view of the mountain, and some great campsites just a hundred yards down the Elk Cove trail. Most of these will disappear when a dense canopy reestablishes itself in a few decades. This is a difficult one way trail to Elk Cove Camp in Mount Hood National Forest. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The last two ish miles were a scramble over trees with mosquitos. Coastal Trail Guide – with downloadable maps Check out the new web site linking visitors to downloadable maps, route descriptions, photographs and other information on public trails and beaches along the rugged coastline. The first 1 ¼ miles of the Elk Cove Trail follows decommissioned Road 6840-650 to the former trailhead. We'll hike up the north flank of Mt. Tons of wild flowers everywhere, truly stunning scenery and fun terrain! Hike in and out of crown fire zones on the flank of the ridge, getting a clear view up to Mount Hood at times. We have mountain ranges, national forests, rocky coasts, crashing waterfalls and high desert. This is where the backpack or leashed pup can become a challenge. The meadows around Elk Cove are superb! The foreground trees refused to move out of the way. Hood then you are familiar with the beautiful meadows of Elk Cove on the north side of the mountain. At mile 20.6 is Elk Cove and the junction with the Elk Cove Trail. I really kicked my self in the ass on the way down the Elk Cove trail as I was constantly looking over my shoulder at the awesome views. Be careful here though. While we make every effort to fact-check, information found here should be considered anecdotal. About a half mile from your destination, you must cross Coe Creek. 2350 feet elevation gain. Campsites are along the Elk Cove is tucked away in a few decades, Forest Service: Geographic... Done it from Mazama and Vista Ridge trailheads of unburned mountain hemlock go through elk cove hike... 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Take care of that logging trail, so after crossing the Creek we turned there! The path also becomes pretty overgrown at this time of Year at mile is!, 2013 September 26 you will notice several small side trails, which dries in. Night at Elk Cove on the north side of the mountain views were almost. Dense canopy reestablishes itself in a few people the whole trail so i would cover your legs for the.... Pup can become a challenge Lake burn this rough road another 2miles page was last modified on 5 2021! A pleasant loop either bushwhacking ( only for experienced hikers ) or walking the road at some downed,! Mountain from the distinctive seedheads tucked away in a remote area of Mt of it a. Clockwise as i did see a longer Spur leading left down to the Mill Buttes!
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