Larch Mountain Crater Loop

Western Gorge, Oregon

Old growth forest on Larch Mountain (photographer: Oliver Dalton)

Trail Features

Wildflowers

Trail Description Driving Directions

Trail Alert, Nov 26, 2018: Lower trail open with hazards. Upper trail inaccessible due to snow gate.

This hike starts at the Larch Mountain Trailhead (#441), at the southwest corner of the parking lot. This area of the Columbia Gorge trails is one of the few open to mountain bikes, although it doesn't seem to see a lot of use. You'll start by passing through a campground, then drop down somewhat steeply through a dense forest, and cross a closed road and a large campsite.

Two miles down, turn right on to the Multnomah Creek Way Trail (#444). Continue down to a log bridge over Multnomah Creek, 0.2 miles from the trail junction. Just across the bridge, take Multnomah Creek Spur Trail (#446), then stay to the right and continue on Multnomah Creek Way Trail (#444), traveling upstream. Pass through an area that was once a lake, but has filled in with natural sediments to create a wetland.

The trail continues up switchbacks to the crater wall and an old logging railroad grade. It continues on about one mile to a junction with Oneonta Trail (#424); turn right and head up Oneonta Trail (#424) for almost a mile to Larch Mountain Road. Turn right here and hike up the road for 0.3 of a mile to your car.

- Hike descriptions were collaboratively written with the generous support of oregonhikers.org. + Read More

Trail Details

Type: Loop
Distance: 6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 1100 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Family Friendly: No
Restrooms: Yes
Trailhead Pass: NW Forest Pass
Gorge Trailhead Passes Guide

Columbia Gorge Car-Free

View itineraries for exploring the Gorge by foot, bike, bus or train.

Post-Fire Gorge Hiking Opportunities

These trails and recreation areas in and around the Gorge are open for exploring.

Ready, Set, GOrge!

When planning your visit to the Gorge, take Ready, Set, GOrge! to heart.

Friends Business Members in the Gorge

Support a local business for a post-hike outing.

Driving Directions

Larch Mountain Trailhead: From the west, travel east on I-84 to exit #18/Lewis and Clark State Park.At the end of the off-ramp, turn left (south) onto the Historic Columbia River Highway and follow the highway through Corbett. Two miles east of Corbett, the road forks. Take a right onto Larch Mountain Road and follow the road 14 miles to the picnic area and trailhead. From the east, take I-84 west to Exit #22, Corbett Exit/NE Corbett Hill Road. Follow NE Corbett Hill Road until it intersects with East Historic Columbia River Highway. Turn left onto the Historic Highway and travel 5 miles until the road forks. Take a right onto Larch Mountain road and follow the road 14 miles to the picnic area and trailhead. Generally from November - June, the road is closed about halfway up the mountain at the snow gate. + Read More

Friends of the Columbia Gorge