Trail Alert, Jan 14, 2021: The U.S. Forest Service - Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area: "The Eagle Creek Recreation Area and the Eagle Creek Trail are closed until further notice in order to remove debris deposited from flooding and repair damage sustained following a rainstorm that took place earlier this week."The Forest Service is partnering with the Pacific Crest Trail Association to remove large fallen trees, landslides and to address anticipated damages sustained on the Eagle Creek Trail. The cleanup will begin as soon as it is deemed safe to do so.
"The Columbia River Gorge has a complex history involving volcanic lava flows, ice-age floods, tectonic plate collisions, and other dynamic geologic phenomenon. The steep slopes and loss of vegetation from the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire throughout the waterfall corridor make the area prone to landslides, rockfall, and debris flows from heavy rains. Hikers should use caution when entering burned areas. "
Hike Details
Type:
Out and back
Distance:
26.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:
5310 feet
Difficulty:
Expert
Trail Features
Family Friendly:
No
Restrooms:
Yes
Trailhead Pass:
Begin this hike at Eagle Creek Trailhead and climb steeply up to Wahtum Lake over two days. The first eight miles follows scenic Eagle Creek, coming to a great camping spot. On the second day, the steep trail climbs up to Wahtum Lake, elevation gain 2300'. Camp at Wahtum Lake, then return the way you came.
This trail enters the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness at approximately 5 miles south of the trailhead. Wilderness restrictions apply.
- Hike descriptions were collaboratively written with the generous support of oregonhikers.org.
This trail enters the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness at approximately 5 miles south of the trailhead. Wilderness restrictions apply.
- Hike descriptions were collaboratively written with the generous support of oregonhikers.org.