3 night backpacking trip oregon

Where will you

Weekend getaways, week-long adventures, gritty expeditions, best backpacking in oregon, from backpacking the oregon coast to overnight trips, the pacific northwest offers an unbeatable landscape. pack your bag for an overnight backpacking adventure and trek through the alpine meadows, magnificent mountain peaks, wild beaches, or colorful canyonlands that call oregon home. no matter what you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. explore our trails for short backpacking trips through oregon or a gritty expedition., *our information may not always be current and should be used for trip planning / selection purposes only. always call ahead for the most current information before setting out on your trip., weekend getaways.

Black Canyon Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 18

Group Size Limit: N/A

Best For: 1-2 nights

Permit/Reservation: Not required 

Cottonwood Canyon State Park

Number of Miles of Trail: 15

Group Size Limit: 10

Best For: 1 night

Mill Creek Wilderness

Badger Creek Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 55

Group Size Limit: 12

Best For: 1-7 nights

Diamond Peak Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 52

Best For: 1-7 nights 

Permit/Reservation: Required 

Bull of the Woods Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 75

Best For: 1-10 nights 

Permit/Reservation: Required May 15-Oct. 15

Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

Number of Miles of Trail: 370

Best For: 1-13 nights (hard limit)

Deschutes National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 98*

Eagle Cap Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 530

Fremont-Winema National Forest

Group Size Limit: 6

Hells Canyon Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 360

Group Size Limit: 8

Kalmiopsis Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 160+

Malheur National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 240+

Best For: 1-29 nights (hard limit)

Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 200

Mt. Hood National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,000

Mount Hood Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 100+

Permit/Reservation: Required May 15-Oct. 15 

Mount Jefferson Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 163

Best For: 1-22 nights 

Permit/Reservation: Required

Mount Thielsen Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 78

Best For: 1-10 nights

North Fork John Day Wilderness

Ochoco National Forest & Crooked River National Grassland

Best For: 1-13 nights 

Permit/Reservation: Not required

*Estimate 

Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest 

Permit/Reservation: Not required *Estimate

Rogue-Umpqua Divide Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 100

Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 70

Best For: 1-9 nights 

Siskiyou Wilderness

Group Size Limit: 25

Sky Lakes Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 65+

Best For: 1-8 nights

Strawberry Mountain Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 125 

Best For: 1-17 nights

Three Sisters Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 260

Best For: 1-36 nights 

Umatilla National Forest 

Number of Miles of Trail: 715

Umpqua National Forest 

Waldo Lake Wilderness

Number of Miles of Trail: 84

Best For: 1-11 nights 

Permit/Reservation: Required  

Wallowa-Whitman National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 2,700

Wenaha-Tucannon Wilderness 

Number of Miles of Trail: 200+

Willamette National Forest

Number of Miles of Trail: 1,700

Looking for more overnight backpacking adventures near Oregon? See our  Washington , Idaho , Nevada , and California state pages for more close trips!

Don't see your favorite place found an error on the site let us know and help backpackers everywhere.

Table of contents

Three Sisters Loop Backpacking Guide

Some of the links on this page are affiliate links

If you’re the type of backpacker who’s into big views, lush forests, stunning peaks, and craggy volcanic landscapes, you’ll absolutely love the Three Sisters Loop. This trail is an iconic 3-6 day backpacking trip set in the Cascade Range among some of Oregon’s prettiest peaks. This 50-mile loop circles the North, Middle, and South Sister volcanoes, providing a fantastic array of diverse terrain. Take this amazing journey and wander through rugged volcanic landscapes with expansive pumice fields, pristine melt lakes, quiet old-growth forests, newly recovering burn areas, peaceful wildflower meadows, and glossy obsidian streams. This is truly a trip that cannot be missed!

• Sweeping Volcano Views
• Diverse Landscapes
• Gorgeous Lakes & Streams
• Wildflowers & Forests
• Well Maintained Trails
• Fascinating Rock Formations
• An Array of Excellent Side Trips
• Limited Camping Areas
• Limited Campfire Areas
• Seasonal Bugs, Snow, and Heat
• Competitive Permits Required

Best Time to Travel

Late July-October is usually a great time to travel to this area. August and September are particularly good for this route because of their reliable weather and snow-free trails, but that’s also when crowds will be the largest. Plan your trip to avoid the crowds if possible. Early-season snowpack can be a limiting factor in this area, and late-season storms can cover trails with snow as well. So make sure to check weather forecasts and snow conditions before heading out on an early or late-season trek.

The length of the inner loop is 46.3 miles, but when you factor a short hike in from a trailhead, your total distance will be around 50 miles. Lava Camp Trailhead (3 miles off the loop), Devils Lake Trailhead (1.5 miles), and Green Lakes Trailhead (2 miles) are common starting points for this trip.

This trip is a good fit for intermediate to experienced backpackers. The trails along this route are well-maintained and well-marked. Trails are also graded with switchbacks to avoid steep ups and downs as much as possible. Packing light will definitely help improve your experience while you’re covering miles on this trek.

Shield volcanoes, while they do have long, gradual flanks, are still rugged, so you expect some decent climbs and descents along this trek. Most of the climbs are only between 500 and 700 feet, and they’re generally not too steep either, but there are a few bigger climbs as well. Your total elevation gain along this loop will be between 6,000 and 10,000 feet, depending on the side trips you choose to take.

Permits are required for day and overnight trips to the Three Sisters Wilderness between June 15 and October 15. You can get one through the reservation system on recreation.gov . The Obsidian trailhead is a limited entry area, which means you’ll need to get a special permit if you plan on parking or camping in that part of the loop (you can pass through on the trail without a permit, though). This should not be considered a limiting factor if you can’t get a permit for the time you plan to visit. Just use one of the other trailheads and plan to camp outside of the Obsidian limited entry area. There are tons of beautiful places to camp outside the Obsidian limited entry area.

For more information on daily quotas, visit this USFS page. They also have a useful map to show designated trailheads and permitted areas.

Regulations

Leave No Trace backpacking is extremely important in this area because it is so popular. This area has experienced a ton of use and human-caused degradation, so we implore you to follow the rules and follow them to limit your impact. Camping is limited to established campsites at North and South Matthieu Lakes, Green Lakes, and Moraine Lake. These are first come first serve. Only camp in designated areas. No fires are allowed above 5000 ft. This includes Camp, Chambers, Green, Moraine, Sisters Mirror, Eileen, Husband, Golden, and others. As mentioned in the permits section, a permit is required to park or camp at the Obsidian Limited Entry Area . There are no specific regulations about bear canisters in this area, but you should still plan to properly store your food. Never feed any wild animals.

Maps & Guides

• Bend, Three Sisters Map – National Geographic Trails Illustrated
• Map 622 & 589 – by Green Trail Maps
• Backpacking Oregon – Wilderness Press. This book is a fantastic trip resource for those that live Oregon and enjoy the backcountry. I highly recommend picking up a copy. It’s well worth the small investment.

There are serveral fantastic side trip options along this loop that are highly recommended if you have the time. Among the most popular and beautiful are the trips to Camp Lake, the South Sister Summit, Sisters Mirror Lake, Husband Lake, Eileen Lake, and North Matthieu Lake. These side trips will not disappoint. Just make sure you get the right permits , follow designated trails, and camp at designated sites.

Water is not scarce along this trek, but it’s not quite as plentiful as in many other Northwest backpacking locations. Plan your route accordingly and check on water conditions before your trip. Bring a lightweight water filter – see our list of the best water filters – and carry enough water to get you from one sure source to the next.

Food Storage

There are bears in the Three Sisters Wilderness, but seeing them is quite rare. It’s far more likely that chipmunks and mice will get into your food if you leave it unprotected. Bear canisters shouldn’t be considered necessary, but you should still protect your food from all wild animals.

The most common trailheads to start this loop hike are listed below. All of them are fantastic places to start this hike. You can’t really go wrong, but if you are having trouble landing an overnight permit, it might be worth a few extra miles to begin your hike at a less popular trailhead to make sure you can do the loop. You will need an annual Northwest Forest Pass to park.

• Lava Camp Lake Trailhead – Just East of McKenzie Pass – Closest to Portland – 3 hours 10 min from Portland
• Obsidian Trailhead – Special Permit Required
• Devils Lake Trailhead
• Green Lakes Trailhead

Leave No Trace

The number of people recreating in the Three Sisters nearly tripled since 2011. Tourism, population growth in the area, and more people recreating increase pressure on this wilderness. Resource damage like unsanctioned fire rings, campsites, structures, exposed human waste, trash, and 300+ miles of social trails (user trails not created or maintained by the forest service that damage wild places) degrades this fragile and once pristine environment. As the saying goes in a desert environment, “Don’t bust the crust,” meaning the surface of volcanic soil is a sensitive biological ecosystem, and by staying on the trail and camping in designated areas, you will help preserve the environment for the flora, fauna, and future hikers.

Because of the high use and degradation this area has experienced, permits are required to protect the area and ensure users have a positive wilderness experience.

Beyond following the permitting system, you can help protect this environment by volunteering for or donating to the nonprofit trail association, Friends of the Central Cascades . Finally, it is always a good idea to familiarize yourself with the principles of Leave No Trace (LNT) . We have a video tutorial that specifically applies LNT principles to a backpacking trip. Last but not least, we made a guide, How to Poop in the Woods , to take the stress and mystery out of that subject. Happy hiking!

The alpenglow in the cascades is hard to beat. – photo credit: dave collins (cleverhiker.com)

broken top and mt. bachelor in view from the trail. – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

if you can time it, this loop is a great fall trip. – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

Green lakes is one of the most popular day use trails in the area, for good reason. The massive moraines, clear water, and a stunning view of south sister draws the crowds. – photo credit: dave collins (cleverhiker.com)

because of the volcanic “soil.” There isn’t much organic matter for the plants in this area to work with, so the ecosystem of these meadows is quite sensitive . – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

We prefer filling up on water at a stream rather than a lake. The cascades are famous for their water. – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

We gambled with the weather and it made for an exciting morning. – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

Mt. Bachelor making an appearance on the three sisters backpacking loop. – photo credit: casey handley (cleverhiker.com)

Why trust us?

We understand how tough it is to find trustworthy gear advice, and that’s one of the main reasons we built CleverHiker. We live for outdoor adventure, and we take these guides very seriously.

• Our recommendations are completely independent and based on hands-on experience.
• We test outdoor gear for a living – we’ve logged over 20,000 trail miles and 1,000 nights in the wilderness.
• Our team has thru-hiked some of the most iconic long trails, including the Continental Divide Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Appalachian Trail, Colorado Trail, Long Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, Arizona Trail, Pinhoti Trail, Superior Hiking Trail, as well as extensive peak bagging, and international treks.
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Top 8 Backpacking Trips in Oregon

From sprawling Pacific beaches with their infamous haystack rocks, verdant forests, picturesque mountains, and high desert, Oregon offers a diverse array of terrain. Love having a water source nearby on your hikes? You won't have to worry about a shortage there either with 100,000+ miles of rivers, over 200 waterfalls, and some of the deepest lakes in the country. The Beaver State is full of natural beauty, no matter what your favorite type of landscape is.

Looking for some of the best backpacking trails in Oregon? From challenging, multi-day trips to short overnight ones, check out the hikes below to start planning your next backcountry adventure!

Featured photo:  Crater Lake National Park ( photo by ucumari )

Oregon Coast Trail - Section 1

If you're looking for one of the best cross-sections of what Oregon has to offer, you can't go wrong on Section 1 of the Oregon Coast Trail. From sandy beaches to dense evergreen forests, this path takes you to a lot of natural and man-made features in the area too. These include the infamous Cannon Beach and its towering haystack rocks, the Peter Iredale shipwreck remains, Hug Point Falls, and the Tillamook Rock Lighthouse.

This section of the OCT is 42 miles long, making for a fun 3-4 trip. It's not terribly taxing, though the beach walks can be tiring. Another thing to plan well for is your overnight stays. There aren't many places right on the trail. But, there are quite a few recreation areas with campgrounds nearby.

For all of the details you need to plan your trip, head over to our full write-up .

Source: Flickr

Lightning Trail - PCT Loop

Located in the popular Crater Lake National Park, this loop is a good option if you're short on time. At nearly 23 miles in length, the trail starts on the shore near Wizard Island. This offers you excellent views of the well-known island from the start. You can't beat the beautiful deep blue waters of Crater Lake either as you traverse its shoreline.

This section of the PCT takes you past several peaks along the way. These include Hillman Peak and The Watchman. You'll also get some nice shade from the towering evergreens along the way and a good workout with 2,600ft of elevation gain. If you enjoy taking your four-legged friend on hikes, it's worth noting that this trail is not dog-friendly.

Three Sisters Loop

Looking to backpack one of the most iconic trails in Oregon? Then set your sights on the Three Sisters Loop. This 43-mile trail lets you see three of the five high points in the state. You'll also find towering old-growth forests, waterfalls, glaciers, interesting rock formations, lots of alpine lakes and streams, and beautiful wildflower meadows.

Rated as moderate to challenging, most of the ascents on the loop are surprisingly gradual. It's best not to plan your trip until at least July. The snow likes to linger, as you can imagine. If you have some extra time, there are plenty of side trails to explore. For more details to start planning your trip, check out our full blog post .

Hurricane Creek Trail

For a short two-day excursion, head to the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Located in the northwest corner of the state, the Hurricane Creek Trail is 20 miles out and back. A couple of highlights include vistas of Sacajawea and Matterhorn Peak. For up-close scenery, you'll come across a small, rocky waterfall and stunning wildflowers in season. You'll also find some original cabins from early settlers along the trail.

Prepare to get wet on several creek crossings. It's also worth noting this is a popular trail with day hikers. But, the sprawling views of the surrounding mountains and open fields are worth it.

Rogue River Trail

Oregon is a beautiful state, which can make it hard to find secluded trails. That's one of the best things about the Rogue River Trail. Even though it's a designated National Rec Trail, it's less well-known and used than similar areas in the Pacific Northwest.

Located in the southern part of the state, this 40-mile point-to-point route has a lot to offer. Old-growth forests, waterfalls, and wildflower meadows are just some of the sights you'll see. The Rogue River is a popular rafting destination. You'll likely see some paddlers on the water or at the many campsites along the way. Speaking of which, there are a lot of established campsites on this trail. This makes it a good option if you're ready to do a longer trail, but don't want to put much thought or planning into where to bed down for the night.

Head over to our full post on the Rogue River Trail for more details.

Source: Bureau of Land Management

Sky Lakes Loop

Looking for a bit more solitude or an overnight trip? Head to the Sky Lakes Loop in the southeast corner of Oregon. This trail is a moderate 14.5 miles with 1,600ft of elevation gain. You'll find tons of lakes along the way, including Deer Lake, Heavenly Twin Lakes, and views of Trapper Lakes from the PCT portion of the trail. The tranquil views of the craggy peaks, pines, and sky in the reflecting waters can't be beat. Feel free to take a dip in one of the larger lakes during the hot months of summer.

Lots of campsites await you along the way. This loop is one of the less-traveled routes in the area, so you're sure to enjoy some peace and quiet. Make sure you have a good map with you as some of the junctions can be confusing.

Timberline Trail

For another challenging, iconic backpacking trail in the Beaver State, head out on the 41.5-mile Timberline Trail. The centerpiece of this loop is the majestic view of Mount Hood. But, you'll also get to see Mount St.Helens and Mount Rainier. If that's not enough natural beauty to take in, the trail also features numerous waterfalls. Ramona Falls is a favorite of many hikers.

If you're looking for a scenic challenge, this is a good option with its steep ascents and tricky river crossings. You'll definitely be working for those views! Be sure to check out our full write-up for all of the details.

Painted Canyon Loop

If you're looking for something different scenery-wise, head out to the Honeycombs Wilderness Study Area. Located in the far western part of the state, the Painted Canyon Loop is a mere 9 miles. While that might not seem that exciting, you can take your time to explore the area. Plus, it's a great option if you'll be arriving late after work on a Friday. Highlights include honeycombed battlements, towering red rock walls, several dry waterfalls, and rock columns.

This area is extremely remote, so you'll definitely find seclusion. But, don't let the short distance fool you. It's rated as difficult because navigation can be tricky in this desert terrain. This is especially true with intersecting animal paths. There's also the danger of flash flooding from rainstorms to consider too. Summer temps can soar dangerously high, so plan accordingly. This trail is best for advanced hikers with excellent wayfinding skills. That said, it's worth the adventure!

Oregon has a variety of terrain that will please any backpacker. Have you done any of the trails on our list? Which one is your favorite? We'd love to hear about your experience in the comments section below!

If you're looking for more hike ideas, read our “ Best West Coast Mountain Backpacking Trips ” round-up post. Also, the following Hike of the Week articles cover other great trails in the region.

Hike of the Week: Spider Gap-Buck Creek Pass Loop Hike of the Week: Lost Coast Trail Hike of the Week: Toiyabe Crest Trail

For even more amazing backpacking trips, visit The Trailhead, our interactive hike map . It contains a curated list of dozens of hikes, each with a detailed write-up.

Finally, check out our comprehensive list of backpacking articles that cover just about everything there is to know about backpacking. If you're just starting out, our Backpacking 101 section covers all the basics. If you already have a few trips under your belt, you can find more advanced topics covered in our Expert Articles .

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Hiking & Backpacking > Backpacking Trips & Trails

Broken Top Loop Backpacking Guide (Three Sisters Wilderness, OR)

A long weekend backpacking trip can’t get much better than Broken Top Loop: a scenic 22 mile route in the Three Sisters Wilderness area of Deschutes National Forest just outside of Bend, Oregon. This little loop is densely packed with alpine lakes, ridge-top views, volcanic crags, delicate meadows, and a tiny bit of easy “cross-country” travel thrown in just to keep things interesting.

Backpacking around Broken Top might just be my favorite of the many amazing outdoorsy things to do near Bend . I hiked this route in two days and absolutely loved it. Read on for route details, campsite locations, permit information, and more.

More PNW loop hikes:

Timberline Trail (Oregon)

Loowit Trail (Washington)

Devil’s Dome Loop (Washington)

6 Backpacking Loop Trails in the Pacific Northwest

When you buy through affiliate links in this post, I may earn a small commission. Thanks for your support! I always offer unbiased opinions based on real experience from the road and trail. Learn more .

Map and Elevation Profile

Here’s the AllTrails map for Broken Top Loop. It’s a helpful resource for recent trail reports, and the app can be used for offline navigation with a small monthly fee.

Hike Overview

Distance : 22 miles, plus any additional miles needed to hike in from whatever trailhead you can get a permit for.

Time : 2 to 3 days

Elevation gain : 3520 feet

Elevation range : ~6000 – 8300 feet

Location : Broken Top Loop is located in Oregon’s Three Sisters Wilderness, about one hour and fifteen minutes by car west of Bend via Sisters.

Trailhead : The Little Three Creek Lake Trailhead on the east side of the loop is the preferred starting point, sometimes also called Tam McArthur Rim Trailhead. There are permit quotas in place though, so you may need to start at a different trailhead (Park Meadow, Broken Top Trailhead, Todd Lake) depending on where you can get a permit. More details on parking and permits below.

Trails : The Broken Top Loop is a route linking up sections of several different trails. In order going counterclockwise:

• Little Three Creek Lake Trail
• Park Meadow Trail
• Green Lakes Trail
• Broken Top Trail
• Unmaintained use trail between Broken Hand and Tam McArthur Rim Trail
• Tam McArthur Rim Trail

Which direction to hike ? Either way works. Clockwise gets both the big climb and the unmaintained section done early. I prefer counterclockwise because it saves the best scenery for the second half.

Difficulty : This is a moderately challenging hike. The altitude and elevation change make it a solid workout but well within reach of most backpackers, especially over three days.

The only navigation challenge is a short stretch of unmaintained “cross country” travel between Broken Hand and the end of Tam McArthur Rim trail on the southeastern side of the loop. This can be navigated easily with a GPS app like AllTrails or Gaia GPS (with offline functionality enabled). A fairly obvious use trail usually forms in the summer, but don’t count on being able to follow it without a GPS app or good map and compass skills.

When to hike : Higher parts of the trail can hold snow well into July, so late July and August are usually best. Mosquitoes can be bad during most of the summer so be sure to pack your bug repellent. Afternoon thunderstorms sometimes pop up in the summer, but days are usually warm. Nights can be cold, near freezing.

Notable Segments

Heading counterclockwise from Three Creek Lake you’ll hike through forest burned in 2012 and still bearing fresh scars of the fire. Amidst the burnt tree skeletons, colorful wildflowers spring to life.

A section of delicate green meadow follows. Then the Green Lakes area reveals views of South Sister, followed by views of Broken Top itself as you head south to contour around the conical Cayuse Crater.

After this the scenery keeps getting even better as you climb north toward Broken Top, coming close to the summit as the use trail skirts around No Name Lake, often crusted with floating ice. The views from Broken Hand Ridge are vast and dramatic, and feel particularly well earned at this point.

The next stretch is technically unmaintained and a GPS app would be helpful (or try it using compass and map for a bit of a challenge). By mid summer a use path is usually fairly obvious, but make sure you have a navigation backup anyway.

Once you join the Tam McArthur Rim trail it’s just a few miles downhill back to the the trailhead.

Between June 15 – October 15 a Central Cascades Wilderness Permit is required for overnight stays in the Three Sisters Wilderness. This system is relatively new and intended to prevent overuse as this area becomes more popular. When I hiked Broken Top Loop in 2020 permits were free and self-issued, but I hear from recent reports that the new permit system can be competitive.

Under the new system, each trailhead has a daily quota (scroll down to overnight quotas on page 3). Forty percent of spots are available for reservation starting the first Tuesday in April. The remaining spots become available 7 days before. The quota numbers are small, so plan ahead if you can!

Here’s a map showing the possible entry trailheads for Broken Top Loop. The most logical option is Tam McArthur Rim. Park Meadow is also good but adds a small additional distance. Broken Top and Todd Lake trailheads are a bit further off-route but also work.

Note that there is no permit option for Three Creek Trailhead. Tam McArthur Rim is right across the street, but according to a report on AllTrails this is only the correct permit if you’re hiking clockwise. Apparently you should get a permit for Park Meadow if hiking counterclockwise from the Three Creek parking lot.

Trailhead Parking

Parking is available at Little Three Creek Trailhead. A Northwest Forest Pass is required, $5 per day. This can be purchased from various local vendors, or purchased online and printed at home.

Popular Camp Locations

Camping is allowed throughout most of the route following leave no trace guidelines: camp in previously used sites, on durable surfaces, and not within 200 feet of water. At Green Lake hikers must camp in one of 28 designated sites which are first-come-first-served, and no fires are allowed.

Here are some of the most popular campsite locations on the Broken Top Loop, and their approximate mileage from Three Creek Trailhead when hiking counterclockwise. These sites generally all have water nearby. Note that camping is prohibited in the immediate vicinity of Golden Lake and No Name Lake, but you can camp nearby and walk to the lakes for water.

Sample Itineraries

Hikers on a 3 day itinerary usually camp at one of the first two options and the last, while hikers on a 2 day itinerary typically spend their one night at Green Lakes.

It’s possible to get the route done in 1.5 days , if you have something else to do with half a day, by pushing all the way to mile 14ish on the first day and finishing early on the second. This is actually the way I hiked it, because I needed to start driving home on that second day.

Trail runners and super speedy hikers might consider pushing through in a single long day , but this should only be attempted by experienced folks familiar with the area and terrain.

Variations and Side Trips

Enthusiastic peakbaggers will wonder if it’s possible to tag the summit of Broken Top on the way around the loop. If you’re a skilled climber who is comfortable with exposure, then yes, and here are the details .

If 22 miles sounds too short, plenty of other trails crisscross the Three Sisters Wilderness. Those with more time should consider the 50 mile Three Sisters Loop . This highly recommended route overlaps with the western edge of Broken Top Loop, circumnavigates the sisters, and includes a long stretch of the Pacific Crest Trail.

Maps and Other Resources

The route is described in detail on Hiking Project . Their free app can be used to download and follow the GPS route even while offline. This is helpful for the off-trail section especially.

The AllTrails route page is really helpful for recent trail reports, and the map can be downloaded for offline use in the AllTrails app for a small monthly fee.

As an outdoor skills exercise though, try using a compass and paper map for that section (I recommend the National Geographic Three Sisters map ) and only consulting the GPS track if needed for safety.

This trip report has some nice pictures, maps, and descriptions which helped jog my memory as I wrote this guide. Here’s another map with some detailed notes and waypoints that might be helpful.

More Backpacking Resources

If you’re planning a hike of Broken Top Loop, you might find these helpful:

• Lightweight Backpacking Tips for Easier Miles
• Should you hike in trail running shoes?
• What Backpackers Should Know About Water Purification
• More hiking and backpacking resources here !

About the Author

Hi there, I’m Alissa, founder of Exploring Wild. I’ve had the pleasure of hiking the Arizona Trail, Colorado Trail, John Muir Trail, Tahoe Rim Trail, and countless shorter amazing trails throughout the US and abroad. I love solitude, big views, and a good lightweight gear setup. Learn more here .

Excited about backpacking but need help getting started? The Backpacking Trip Planner Workbook will help you start off on the right foot.

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2 thoughts on “Broken Top Loop Backpacking Guide (Three Sisters Wilderness, OR)”

Nice writeup. I would add that Wilderness Permits are required June 15 to October 15, not July as you stated.

Thank you! I’ve updated it.

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29 Aug 4 of the Very Best Overnight Backpacking Trips Near Portland, OR

I can’t think of anything better than breathing in mountain air, stargazing away from civilization and completely removing myself for a few days on a backpacking adventure.

Living in the Pacific Northwest, we’re almost too spoiled by the incredible trails that surround us in every direction. Some of these trails perfectly teeter along the Oregon gloomy coast, some effortlessly weave into the high desert plains, and some are nestled perfectly into the mountains littered with wildflowers and clear blue waterways. With nearly 3,000 trails in the PNW, it can be overwhelming to choose the best trail for an overnight backpacking adventure. 

So here are some of my favorite trailheads where I can escape the city and truly marvel at what mother nature has to offer.

Eagle Creek Trail

For a very close to Portland trail, Eagle Creek along the gorge is an incredible, easily accessible option. Running at about 25 miles, this trip will last about 2 – 3 days (depending on your skill level). This trail begins at Eagle Creek Campground and ends at Wahtum Lake. This is a nice out and back hike with great scenery of waterfalls, ferns, and rocky outcroppings. To really get everything this trail has to offer, it’s best to visit in late spring/early August. 

Timberline Trail 

Timberline on Mount Hood, makes for another astonishing trip in which you could complete in roughly 4 days and 3 nights. . It begins at Timberline Lodge and then proceeds to circle Mount Hood covering about 40 miles on both the Pacific Crest Trail and Timberline Trail. The variety experienced along this route is truly incredible with highlights of Ramona Falls, Bald Mountain, McNeil Point, Elk Meadows/Elk Cove and Paradise Park. Blooming meadows of wildflowers, barren lava flows, and huge waterfalls are sure to make all of the elevation gain well worth it. Be prepared for multiple river crossings along your journey but most of all, be prepared for a beautiful experience exploring the wonders of the Mount Hood Wilderness.

Three Finger Jack Trail

If you’re short on time, but still want to make it out for an overnighter, one of my favorites is Three Finger Jack. This trail is one of the best for a one night excursion as it’s in the Canyon Creek Meadows Wasco Lake loop. You can also take Canyon Creek trail up the base of Three Finger Jack and scramble up to some excellent high elevation camp spots with amazing mountain goat viewing spots, glimmering trout filled lakes, and huckleberries galore in July and August.. 

Snowgrass Flat and Goat Lake Loop Trail

Snowgrass Flat and Goat Lake Loop trail in Washington, about 3hrs 30 mins away from Portland proper, can be done as either a long day trip, a nice 2-night backpack trip or you can even expand it to other neighboring trails and extend the trip to be even longer than 2 days! The trail passes through dense forest before reaching treeline, follows panoramic ridgelines, and passes through flowering meadows. The bugs on these trails can be quite relentless, but the pristine high alpine environment with wildflower meadows, mountain goats, and the above the tree line adventure make it all worth it. 

Backpacking is a necessity as it gives me the time to unplug and gain the clarity I need to tackle the demands of normal day-to-day life confidently. I can escape for a solo trip or take my family and come back feeling rested and thankful. As always, make sure you do the proper research, have all the necessary gear, permits and convenient nutrition before visiting these trailheads. But mostly, remember to take it all in. Breathe.

Culinary Inspired Backcountry Pack Trips

Chef-led & guided mule and horse pack trips in the wallowas, eagle cap wilderness, elkhorn mountains, and beyond., thinking about taking your group into oregon's backcountry take it from our previous guests: "we're so much more than guides."  we make exploring the backcountry easy. don't worry- planning, gear, gourmet dinners, backcountry cocktails, local lore, environmental education, safety and comfort included. our wide range of luxury pack trips take place primarily in the elkhorn range of the blue mountains and in the eagle cap wilderness of the wallowa mountains in ne oregon. contact us for other locations.  submit a private trip request above, scroll down for sample trips and more info or join one of our group tours on this page .

No matter what kind of trip you book, we guarantee:  epic country, time to reconnect away from devices, personalized communication from the 1st email to the end of the tour, free professional photos of your adventure, and always, a wild time. 

Luxury Trips | Mule Supported Gourmet  Backcountry Treks to Luxury Basecamps

These trips are the crème de la crème of what we do: truly wild backcountry adventures paired with scratch-made, open-fire cooked gourmet meals. Show up with a good pair of hiking shoes, bring your friends & family, and let us do the rest. Each of our luxury trips is hand crafted specifically for your group.  Trips generally run from May - October. We recommend at least 2 nights to truly experience the wild.  Trips start at $550 per person, per day.

OUR HIGHEST LEVEL OF LUXURY: mules pack all your gear, spacious tents, camp chef & bartender, private sit-down privy, all-inclusive,  incredibly empathetic service

DINE: on chef-prepared hyper l ocal gourmet camp grub and locally sourced craft cocktails. We take pride in supporting all locally Eastern Oregon-owned businesses and farms. View sample menu .

LEARN: guided fly fishing lessons, naturalist ecology and culture interpretation, guide star gazing, paddling lessons

CUSTOM OPTIONS: from corporate team building retreats to outdoor video productions

UNIQUE & EXCLUSIVE: Go Wild's luxury camp experience are unlike any other backcountry tour in the Pacific Northwest

DISCONNECT : explore Oregon's largest wilderness free of distractions with local professional guides

local, professional, naturalist guides

camp chef & bartender

mule packer to carry 30lbs of personal gear per person

all meals, beverages & cocktail package

all camp / hike gear- tents, cots , chairs , group gear, kitchen, etc. (excluding sleeping bags, +$40/p)

we'll send you a packing list upon booking

personal 2- person tent & cot.

Contact us if you would like to / can share. This decreases our impact on the land.

camp games, activities-  we are professional wilderness fun facilitators

professional photographer & download link to photos

meet & greet evening before with hosted beverage ​

Transportation to and from Eastern Oregon

contact us if you need this arranged​

we provide airport transfers to Eastern Oregon from BOI or PDT for a fee

lodging before / after the trip, if desired

contact us for local discounts and recommendations​

sleeping bag (rent for $40/person), day pack, water bottle, good hiking shoes/boots

Evening Before Tour:  Meet & greet at our local pub to talk logistics and get to know each other over dinner and hosted beverages.

Day 1:   Depart Baker City / La Grande OR for a 1 hr drive to the trailhead and meet our mule packer. Our hike leads us into the wilderness where a private luxury camp awaits.

Day 2: Settle in at camp, explore the surrounding lakes and peaks with your guide or relax at camp. 

Day 3: Explore the surrounding lakes and peaks with y our guide or relax at camp. 

Day 4: Hike out of the wilderness.

Min / Max Guests: 2 / 10

Location: a l l camp locations are located in the Wallowa-Whitman National Forest. Tours depart from La Grande, OR. Expect impressive scenery, vast stretches of wilderness, crystal clear alpine lakes, and endless beauty. Contact us for other locations.

Difficulty: no experience required. Hike lengths to camp range from a flat 2 mile trek to 6 miles with 1500' of elevation. We'll cater the hike to your desired difficulty level.

Prices starting at $550 /person/day based on trip length, custom requests, and number of adventures.

• Nearest Airports: BOI (2.5 hrs), PDT (45min)

Request More Info

Start the adventure fill out the form below and dan will respond with your desired information. call to book..

Group Tours 2025

WHAT PEOPLE SAY

Thanks to GoWild for making a birthday celebration for a friend extra special. The food (dinner and breakfast) was truly amazing...I would hike many many miles just for the food alone! This is a great option for people who are looking for an extra special outdoor adventure. Did I mention the food was amazing?

— Judy, TripAdvisor

The Fine Print:

$500/p deposit due at time of booking. Due to the nature of our business with limited dates, trip sizes and commitments of guides, this is non-refundable. The deposit may however, be transferred to a future Go Wild trip if the cancellation is made 90 day prior to tour departure. 

Final payment due prior to departure by check, cash, our booking software, or Venmo. Cancellations within 30 days will be charged the entire balance unless you or us can fill the spot at full price. 

Fire, Weather, & Water Levels : All tours operate rain, shine, or smoke. In case of extreme or dangerous fire conditions, tours are moved to a safe location. For packrafting trips, we monitor levels leading up to a trip. Be prepared for contingency plans, but we'll chat about these during the booking process. For all tours, we recommend "Cancel For Any Reason" trip insurance to protect your vacation. See below.

Insurance: We strongly recommend you to purchase travel insurance prior to your trip. There are numerous agencies out there. Find one that works for you. A good example is the Ripcord Plan by Redpoint which covers trip cancellation for any reason, interruption, backcountry evacuations and more.

For group trips , Go Wild has the right to cancel any trip that does not meet our minimum; confirmations will be made 30-90 days prior to the start of the tour, depending on the trip.

Contact us: 541.403.1692 // [email protected]

Oregon Hikers

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Recommendations for the best 2-day/3-night backpacking trip?

Post by gardenoftee » Sun Jul 10, 2016 4:18 pm

Re: Recommendations for the best 2-day/3-night backpacking t

Post by MagicBandana » Mon Jul 18, 2016 6:51 pm

Post by retired jerry » Mon Jul 18, 2016 7:33 pm

Post by AAdamsPDX » Tue Jul 19, 2016 11:51 am

MagicBandana wrote: ...Eagle Creek Trail off the Columbia River Gorge has plenty of HOLY MACKEREL waterfalls and you can go as far as you want back in there, as it connects with the PCT....

Post by gardenoftee » Tue Jul 19, 2016 3:58 pm

Post by Naturebat » Tue Jul 19, 2016 5:26 pm

Post by Paul2 » Wed Jul 20, 2016 5:02 pm

Post by Naturebat » Wed Jul 20, 2016 5:13 pm

Paul2 wrote: Whats wrong with Mt. Hood? Plenty of stellar options up there. The Timberline trail is nice and not overly wide like a lot of overused trails. Going near McNeil Point or doing a Pinnacle Ridge/ Elk Cove loop would be really nice options. Plus avoid permit hassles of Mt. Jefferson and how crowded it is there.

Post by gardenoftee » Wed Jul 20, 2016 7:10 pm

Post by drm » Wed Jul 20, 2016 7:22 pm

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How to Spend 3 Days on a Dreamy Oregon Coast Road Trip

An Oregon Coast Road Trip has been a dream vacation of mine since I discovered how beautiful the state of Oregon is. Dramatic seaside cliffs, plentiful marine wildlife, crystal clear water, quaint coastal towns, prominent lighthouses….what more could you ask for? The Oregon Coast is one of the Seven Wonders of Oregon, and it is easy to see why. You can make this drive as quickly or slowly as your heart desires. We spent 3 dreamy days exploring the coast, but you could add more time if you prefer to slow down your trip.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links so if you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we might earn a small commission (but don’t worry, it’s no extra cost to you).

Free Oregon Coast Road Trip Itinerary

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North to South or South to North?

Most people begin their Oregon Coast road trip in Astoria and travel south towards Newport. Driving this way puts you on the beach side and is much easier turning right into pullouts and viewpoint stops. If I were to do this Oregon Coast road trip again, I would likely drive this route. However, we started this trip near Salem which is closer to Newport than Astoria, so it made sense for us to start on the southern side and travel north. This is how this itinerary is laid out. However, if you prefer to go north to south, you can do this trip in reverse.

Do You Need Park Passes?

There is a lot to unpack here. Most of the stops and viewpoints are part of a state park or National Park Services land, and they will require an entrance fee. In Oregon state parks, the daily parking permit is $5 per day per vehicle and are sold in the parking area of each park. Your daily park pass is good at all state parks you travel to that day, meaning you can move from park to park and only pay the one-day $5 fee. Most of the machines only take credit card, but we did find one that only took exact change cash. So I would recommend bringing both a credit card and small bills. You can also purchase an annual Oregon state park pass here for $30.

For NPS lands such as Devil’s Punchbowl, Thor’s Well, and Yaquina Head Lighthouse, you will have to pay a separate fee. If you have an America the Beautiful Annual National Park Pass (Interagency Pass), you can display this pass on your dashboard and skip the daily fee.

Your other option for park passes (which may be the best option) is the Oregon Pacific Coast Passport. This is an interagency pass that allows access to lands operated by the National Park Services, Bureau of Land Management, and the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department along Highway 101, the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway. An annual pass is $35 or a 5-day pass is $10. Find out more about this option here .

Best Time to Visit

The best weather for an Oregon coast road trip usually happens in the summer and fall months. Summer is the busiest time of year for this area, but fall runs a close second with adults vacationing here after kids are back in school. The winters are the least crowded but also the coldest and rainiest times. My favorite time to visit is in the springtime when the crowds are pretty much nonexistent and the flowers are blooming. This time of year can also have cool and rainy weather, but I think it adds to the charm of the coast. Also, if you visit during April, you can make a side trip to the Wooden Shoe Tulip Festival near Salem. We did this, and the tulip fields were breathtaking.

Know Your Tide Times

When doing any coastal trip, tide times can be very important depending on what your plans are. This Oregon Coast road trip is no exception. Thor’s Well is best scene at or near high tide. If you show up at low tide (like I originally did), the well is less than impressive. However, if you are wanting to see tide pools or beachcomb for sand dollars and other shells, you will need to arrive around low tide.

Where to Stay

There are several options for places to stay depending on what towns you end up stopping in. Most of these small towns do not have name brand hotels, so it can be a little worrisome booking an inn that you have never heard of. I loved all the places we stayed at during our Oregon Coast road trip and would recommend them. Here is where we stayed.

Newport – Holiday Inn

Pacific City – Surf and Sand Inn

Cannon Beach – Ecola Creek Lodge

What to Pack

• Water!! I recommend bringing a refillable water bottle or two. Oregon charges a tax on plastic bottles, so it is best if you use a refillable one. Not to mention, it is better for the environment!
• Bug Spray  – Keep those pesky bugs away!
• Sunscreen  – Protect your skin from the sun, and do not forget to reapply.
• Hat  – More sun protection to block the sun from your face, but the hat can also keep rain off your face.
• Hiking shoes /boots – These are waterproof so walking on the beach or in muddy areas will not be a problem. Here are the  men ‘s version of the hiking shoes I love.
• Hiking socks  – The best way to prevent blisters is by keeping your feet dry. Moisture-wicking socks are the best way to do that.
• Backpack  – A backpack is a necessity when hiking to carry your water, snacks, sunscreen, etc. that you may need on your longer hikes.
• RTIC Soft-Sided Cooler  – Keep your drinks and your Tillamook cheese souvenirs cool in this soft cooler.
• Packing Cubes  – Keep your stuff organized in your luggage with these packing cubes.
• Rain Jacket – Rain can (and probably will) occur at some point while in Oregon, so make sure to pack your  men’s  or  women’s  rain jacket.
• Waterproof Pants – If visiting in the rainy season, waterproof pants will help keep your legs dry. Men’s Pants .
• Jacket – Even in warmer months, the temps can be cool so pack a light  men’s  or  women’s  jacket.

Day 1: Newport to Pacific City

Heceta head lighthouse.

Heceta Head Lighthouse is 56 feet tall, built in 1894, and is an easy 0.9 mile walk from the parking area. We originally had not planned to visit this lighthouse, but we had arrived at Thor’s Well during low tide and needed to kill some time. Just a few miles south of this lighthouse is the Sea Lion Cave , which would be interesting to see if you have the time.

Thor’s Well

Thor’s Well is an old sea cave that collapsed and now is a sight to see! During high tide, waters rush up through the large natural pipeline and explode in the air. Then the water recedes back down the drainage hole and back into the ocean. You can walk right up to the well, but be careful as the sea can be unpredictable.

Devil’s Churn

From Thor’s Well, you can drive to the Devil’s Churn parking lot or you can walk the Trail of the Restless Way to see this next sight. This trail combined with the Thor’s Well loop and the Devil’s Churn loop is around 1.6 miles.

Cape Perpetua Lookout

Located in the Suislaw National Forest, Cape Perpetua Lookout sits 800 feet above the coast and is the highest drivable point on the Oregon Coast. Here you can get remarkable views of the curvy Pacific Coast Highway hugging the coastline. You can also get a view of the town of Yachat by walking the Whispering Spruce Trail (0.4 miles).

After exploring the Cape Perpetua Scenic Area, we stopped for lunch at the Blue Whale in Yachats. This town is home to art galleries and gift shops that you can peruse while you are here. The second time I did this Oregon Coast Road Trip, we stopped in Yachats for breakfast at the Drift Inn Hotel and Restaurant. Both options were very tasty!

As we traveled northward on the Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, we stopped at the historic Newport Bayfront for some shopping. Newport had super cute shops with unique gifts and souvenirs. If you choose to spend more time in Newport, there are several other things to do in this area such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium and Hatfield Marine Science Center .

Yaquina Head Lighthouse

Next, you will stop at the Yaquina Head Lighthouse which sits at 93 feet tall, making it the tallest on your Oregon Coast road trip. Since 1873, this lighthouse has been guiding ships and boats away from the rocky Oregon shores. Make sure to time your visit during low tide so you can check out the tide pools. You could spend hours exploring the micro-habitats for sea stars, urchins, crabs, and other sea life.

Devil’s Punchbowl

Devil’s Punchbowl was formed millions of years ago when two sea caves eroded into one and the ceiling collapsed. Look on from atop the large bowl as waves come crashing into the unique landform. Just to the south of the punchbowl, we watched dozens of surfers riding the waves in the waters below. Near this landmark is a surf shop and a small winery.

From Devil’s Punchbowl, drive along the Otter Crest Loop until you come to Otter Rock. This viewpoint offers yet another amazing view of the Oregon coast.

Depoe Bay and Boiler Bay are great locations to spot resident whales year round. If you are visiting between May and December, you can also board a whale watching tour .

Pacific City

We ended our first day in Pacific City where we ate dinner at Pelican Brewery. Next to the restaurant is Cape Kiwanda. While waiting for our table to be ready, we walked out onto the beach and watched as people sand boarded down the giant sand dunes to the left.

DAY 2: Pacific City to Cannon Beach

Part of this day will be exploring the ocean side of the Three Cape Scenic Loop which consists of Cape Kiwanda (which we explored the evening before), Cape Lookout, and Cape Meares.

Cape Lookout

Our first stop on the Three Capes Scenic Loop was Cape Lookout. It happened to be low tide and as we walked out onto the beach, we noticed several broken sand dollar pieces. As we began looking harder, we were able to find a few whole sand dollars! I had only found 2 sand dollars in my whole life prior to this Oregon Coast road trip: one in the Gulf of Mexico and one in the Caribbean. So I was obviously super excited to find so many! And this launched our sand dollar quest for the rest of this trip.

Oceanside and Tunnel Beach

Oceanside is a super cute town that does not look like any of the other coastal towns on this Oregon Coast road trip. The houses are nestled into the hillside and resemble something you would see in Italy. We walked onto the Oceanside Beach and headed north toward the cliff where the beach ends. Here you will find a manmade tunnel that leads to Tunnel Beach. Make sure to bring a light source with you (your camera flashlight will do) as part of the tunnel is fairly dark. There are some rocks you will have to traverse in this darker area before stepping out to the view you see in the picture above.

Cape Meares State Scenic Viewpoint

Cape Meares is your last stop on the Three Capes Scenic Loop. As you arrive in the parking lot, step out onto the viewing platform to see dramatic views of waves crashing into seaside cliffs.

Cape Meares Lighthouse

Walk down the trail towards the Cape Meares Lighthouse which was first lit in 1890. This stubby lighthouse is the shortest on the Oregon Coast.

Octopus Tree

Walk past the restrooms on a well-maintained trail for approximately 0.1 miles to witness the Octopus Tree. How this Sitka spruce came to look like this is a bit of a mystery. The tree has no central trunk and measures 46 feet in circumference at the base. It is about 105 feet tall and is estimated to be 250-300 years old.

Tillamook Creamery

The road just past Cape Meares has been closed indefinitely due to slide activity. Therefore, to get to the Tillamook Creamery, you will have to backtrack to Netarts and take 131 towards Tillamook.

When we arrived, we made our way to the café first and ordered cheeseburgers and cheese curds. After lunch, we started the self-guided tour which was really interesting. At the end of the tour, you can taste 3 different kinds of Tillamook cheese, shop in the gift shop, and get a scoop of Tillamook ice cream. You may have a tummy ache by the end of your trip here!

After being on the road for a little while, we decided to stretch our legs at Hug Point. We walked out onto the beach and watched the tide rolling in.

Cannon Beach and Haystack Rock

Cannon Beach was my favorite of all the small coastal towns we visited during our Oregon Coast road trip. The town is small but not too small and provided enough cute shopping to entertain us for a few hours. Cannon Beach is most famous for Haystack Rock which towers over the beach and resembles…you guessed it…a haystack. This is another beach where we were successful at finding sand dollars during low tide.

Ecola State Park

The windy road through lush green forests and ferns is reason enough to explore Ecola State Park. Make sure to visit Ecola Viewpoint to see Tillamook Rock Lighthouse off in the distance. Also allow time to explore Indian Beach and Crescent Beach.

Day 3: Cannon Beach to Astoria (and Beyond)

Fort stevens state park.

In the morning, we drove straight to Fort Stevens State Park and to the Wreck of Peter Iredale. Peter Iredale ran aground in 1906 where it has been decaying ever since. At low tide, you can walk right up to the ship remains. This beach is where we hit the mother load of sand dollars! We found dozens!

You could spend a lot of time exploring Fort Stevens State Park. The earthen fort was used during the Civil War and World War II to protect from enemy ships entering the mouth of the Columbia River. The 4,300-acre parks also offers many recreational activities such as hiking, biking, camping, and wildlife viewing.

We stopped at the Astoria Column, a 125-foot monument that sits atop Coxcomb Hill. Climb the 164-step spiral staircase to the top of the column for views of Astoria and the Columbia River.

The town was a lot bigger than the other coastal towns and way more industrial with half a dozen barges sitting off the coast. So it was a bit off-putting to me. Had I started the trip in Astoria and traveled south, I may have enjoyed it more. But compared to the other amazing towns along the coast, Astoria was underwhelming. So we decided to cut our time in Astoria short and continue our coastal drive north into Washington where we found a couple hidden gems. If you decide to spend more time in Astoria than we did, you can visit other sights such as the Astoria Riverwalk, Flaval House Museum , and Columbia River Maritime Museum .

Cranberry Museum

Located about 30 minutes north of Astoria in Washington is the Cranberry Museum and cranberry farm. The 11-acre farms houses several cranberry bogs that are harvested in October each year for Ocean Spray. You can pick up cranberry products in the gift shop.

Long Beach self-proclaims to be the world’s longest beach. While this is not true, it is one of the world’s longest beaches at 28 miles in length. It is, however, the longest beach on the U.S. West Coast. The town of Long Beach is another cute coastal town with unique shops and restaurants.

Cape Disappointment

Cape Disappointment State Park is a Washington State Park that offers 2 lighthouses, hiking, and a scenic loop drive. There is a $5 daily fee, or you can display a Discover Pass (Washington annual state park pass). We hiked the 1.9-mile Cape Disappointment Trail for great views of Long Beach below. Along the hike we discovered an old wooden water tower hidden in the trees and a concrete structure that remains from World War II. There is also a 0.5-mile hike in the park that has great views of one of the lighthouses. Unfortunately, this trail was closed during our visit, which was a bit of a…disappointment.

After finishing our time at this state park, we drove straight to Portland and stayed the night near the airport to catch our flight the next morning.

Extend Your Vacation

If you want to add travel time to your Oregon Coast Road Trip, you can consider some of the following nearby itineraries:

The Ultimate Pacific Northwest Road Trip: How to Spend 1, 2, 3, or 4 Weeks

How to Hike Oregon’s Trail of Ten Falls

The Greatest Oregon Road Trip: See the Best of Oregon’s Natural Wonders in 14 Days

The Best Day Trips from Portland, Oregon

The Best Hikes in Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge

How to Spend 3 Days in Columbia River Gorge, Oregon

The 18 Best Things to Do in Hood River, Oregon

The 20 Best Waterfalls in Oregon

• Itineraries

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• Trackback: How to Hike Oregon's Trail of Ten Falls - Krystal [[Clear]] Trekking

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Clever Hiker: Timberline Trail Backpacking Guide

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September 23, 2024

Timberline Trail Backpacking Guide

The Timberline Trail around Mt. Hood is one of Oregon’s most iconic and scenic trails. This 40-mile backpacking loop is a fantastic way to experience the immense size and beauty of Mt. Hood. On the Timberline, you’ll encounter lush old-growth forests, pristine alpine waterfalls, wildflower-filled meadows, towering craggy glaciers, rough volcanic landscapes, and some of the finest cascade views around. The hike certainly won’t be easy, with plenty of ups and downs along the way. But in the end, the reward for your effort will be well worth it. So if you haven’t backpacked the Timberline Trail yet, we highly recommend putting it on your list.

Quick Facts Distance: 38.3-mile loop Time Needed: 3-4 days Highest Elevation: 7,350 ft. Timberline High Point Lowest Elevation: 3,300 ft. Near Ramona Falls Elevation Gain (approx.): 9,000 ft. Best Time to Hike: July-September Permits: Yes (May 15th to October 15th) Difficulty: Challenging

Continue reading to learn more, written by Dave Collins.

Dave Collins

Dave is CleverHiker’s founder and he oversees day-to-day operations of the site. This includes content creation, gear testing, photography, web design, social media, advertising, strategic planning, employee management and more.

Dave grew up in an outdoorsy family and spent much of his childhood on the trail while earning his way to Eagle Scout. He has extensive backpacking experience in some of the world’s most beautiful and challenging destinations, including thru-hiking the Pacific Crest Trail and trekking through Nepal, Patagonia, and British Columbia/Alberta. He’s tackled iconic trails such as the John Muir Trail, Wonderland Trail, and Collegiate Peaks Loop. He has backpacked widely in Oregon, Washington, Utah, Wyoming, California, and Glacier National Park. Check out the Trip Guide section of CleverHiker for a selection of many of the trails Dave has hiked.

In addition to his on-trail experience, Dave has spent over a decade studying the outdoor gear industry, testing equipment, and writing reviews. Dave’s highly analytical approach, thorough research, and keen eye for emerging trends and innovations have made him a trusted authority in the outdoor gear industry. His meticulous attention to detail and extensive experience have been instrumental in building the CleverHiker Gear Guide into a go-to resource for outdoor enthusiasts seeking honest and independent gear-buying advice. With a passion for both gear and the great outdoors, Dave is committed to helping others make informed decisions about the equipment they need to pursue their own outdoor adventures.

Dave embraces an active and adventurous way of life. When he’s not on the trails, you can find him spending time with family and friends, catching waves along the coast, playing various recreational sports, exploring new places around the world, and engaging in any outdoor activity that allows him to stay active and connected with nature.

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How to backpack Timberline Trail, a 41.5-mile loop that circles Mount Hood

• Updated: Sep. 24, 2024, 11:56 a.m.
• | Published: Sep. 23, 2024, 6:00 a.m.

• Haley Nelson | For The Oregonian/OregonLive

The first thing you’ll need if you’re preparing to hike the 41.5-mile Timberline Trail is a robust vocabulary, because with the ever-changing scenery and awe-inspiring views, you may get tired of hearing yourself say “wow.” Circumnavigating Mount Hood , the highest mountain in Oregon, the route leads hikers through lush forests, blooming alpine meadows, over rushing glacial rivers and above the treeline to rocky, lunar landscapes.

The Timberline Trail was originally completed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1934, connecting existing trails on the north and south sides of the mountain. Today it is heavily used by outdoor enthusiasts, so expect to share the busiest sections with day hikers, dog-walkers, Pacific Crest Trail thru-hikers, foragers, photographers, trail runners and possibly even horseback riders.

This beautiful route is certainly no secret, but as long as visitors continue to be respectful and leave no trace, it is a true gem and bucket list Oregon thru-hike.

Alyssa Marafino, from Bend, hikes the Timberline Trail near Muddy Fork on Sunday Aug. 25, 2024, in Oregong's Mount Hood Wilderness. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

How long is the route?

The entire loop is 41.5 miles long and overlaps with the Pacific Crest Trail for about 17 miles on the west side of the mountain. It can be hiked in either direction, but most backpackers travel clockwise.

Alyssa Marafino hikes the Timberline Trail on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

What is the elevation gain?

While the lowest point of the trail is at 3,480 feet and the highest is at 7,320 feet, the elevation you will hike is much more than 3,840 feet. Because of the consistent descents and climbs in and out of glacial-fed drainages around the mountain, hikers climb more than 10,000 vertical feet on this strenuous route.

Hikers pass through forest on the southwest flank of Mount Hood on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024, in the Mount Hood Wilderness. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

How long does it take to complete the route?

This entirely depends on the hiker’s style of backpacking or fitness level. If you’re the type of hiker who likes to dip their toes into every creek or enjoys spending a couple hours each day reading in a meadow or taking photos, you may slow your pace to complete the trek in four or five days. On the other hand, if you like to pack ultralight and start walking before dawn, it can be done in two days. Most hikers complete the route in three to four days, and in my opinion, three days is quite challenging due to the significant elevation gain and loss.

Where do I start?

The loop is most commonly started at Timberline Lodge , but there are several other access points with parking including Cloud Cap Saddle Campground, Top Spur trailhead (0.5 mile from the trail), and Ramona Falls trailhead (1.5 miles from the trail). The roads to Timberline Lodge and Ramona Falls trailhead are paved the entire way, but low-clearance vehicles may have to take it slowly on the dirt roads to Cloud Cap and Top Spur.

Do I need a permit?

Free, self-issued wilderness permits are required between May 15 and October 15 and can be found at most access points to the trail.

A bee lands on an arrowleaf groundsel flower along the Timberline Trail on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

What is the best time of year to go?

Portions of the trail may still have snow on them into July, so the best time to hike it is late July through early October. Keep in mind that river levels may be high in July when the snow is melting. Go during August for wildflowers or later into the season to avoid crowds.

Backpackers hike along the Timberline Trail on the east side of Mount Hood with Mount Rainier, left, and Mount Adams visible in the background on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

Fog hangs over the landscape where water flows down the Sandy River, left, and Paradise Branch on the west flank of Mount Hood on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

What condition is the trail in?

For the majority of the route, the trail is in great condition and is well marked. However, according to the U.S. Forest Service, the Timberline Trail is not fully maintained, and that is most apparent about two miles north of Ramona Falls, just past Yocum Ridge. There are washed out portions of the trail along steep drops and extensive blowdown which requires climbing over and under fallen trees for several miles.

There is also a very steep descent with loose footing to the Elliot Branch water crossing (from the clockwise approach) which requires the use of a provided fixed rope to lower yourself down. Take your time with these sections and only do what you’re comfortable with.

A tent stands in the trees near Cloud Cap Saddle Campground on Monday, Aug. 26, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

Where can I camp?

There is only one official campsite with running water, picnic tables, a pit toilet and required reservations on this loop: Cloud Cap Saddle Campground. Other than that, backpackers must find pre-existing dispersed campsites on durable surfaces along the trail. There are many established tent sites to choose from near Ramona Falls, Muddy Fork, Elk Cove, Gnarl Ridge, Newton Creek and elsewhere. Keep in mind that camping is prohibited in all meadows, within the tree-covered islands of Elk Cove and Elk Meadows, and within 300 feet of Ramona Falls.

How much water should I carry?

Since Mount Hood’s snowpack and glaciers are constantly melting and draining down all sides of the mountain, you never go long before seeing water. The longest stretch without water is Cloud Cap to Newton Creek. I brought two liters of capacity with me and didn’t have any problems.

Alyssa Marafino crosses Eliot Branch draining from Eliot Glacier on Mount Hood on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

Speaking of water, how are the water crossings?

Even over the Timberline Trail’s swiftest rivers, there are no official bridges. Hikers should be prepared to scout up- and downriver, take their time, and either wade or rock-hop. Trekking poles are useful to test rock and log stability and to keep your balance while crossing. Keep an eye out for the many cairns in place to help hikers find recommended areas to cross.

Alyssa Marafino watches the sun set from the Cloud Cap Inn on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

Can I have a campfire?

If you are hiking this route during the summer, I can guarantee that there will be a fire ban in effect and for good reason! S’mores are not worth risking a wildfire. If you are hiking in the wet season, campfires are only allowed in existing fire rings and are prohibited within 500 feet of Ramona Falls and McNeil Point , within the tree-covered islands of Elk Cove and Elk Meadows, and within Paradise Park.

Ramona Falls flows over mossy basalt on the west side of Mount Hood on Saturday, Aug. 24, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

What will I see?

This was the most wonderfully diverse trek I’ve ever experienced. You can start your day amongst vibrant ferns, spotting banana slugs along the trail and finish the evening savoring wild huckleberries and watching the sunset turn Hood’s glaciers pink far above the treeline. You can see wide, sandy basins filled with shifting fog and distant waterfalls, wide mushrooms pushing their way out of the forest floor, crystal-clear glacial streams, an explosion of brightly-colored wildflowers, gnarled whitebark pine trees, sweeping vistas of Mount Rainier, Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens, and of course, views of the ever-changing profile of Mount Hood as you make your way around.

The sun sets on the peak of Mount Hood on Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024. Haley Nelson | Special to The Oregonian/OregonLive

Any final advice?

Pack light where you can to save your knees, but don’t skimp on the snacks and energy chews. The elevation gain is no joke and I found myself snacking constantly to fuel the climbs. Energy chews with electrolytes are great for preventing muscle cramps. A sun shirt will come in handy when hiking the east face of the mountain since it’s completely exposed above the tree line.

Lastly, the difference between your trip being Type 1, 2, or 3 fun can depend on how hard you decide to push! Take the trail at your own pace and be sure to pause to take in the incredible views.

See more photos from the Timberline Loop trail:

Read more about hikes in and around Oregon:

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To learn more about travel and adventure opportunities in the Pacific Northwest, listen to the Peak Northwest podcast on Apple Podcasts , Google Podcasts , Spotify or anywhere you listen to podcasts

– Haley Nelson, for The Oregonian/OregonLive.

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