crow.black

HIKES AND BIKES AND BIOLOGY SOMETIMES

Clackamas River Trail (Upper)

Similar but Different

A few weeks ago we hiked the the lower/downstream portion of this trail and it was really pretty amazing.  This upper part was surprisingly different.

On the plus side, this section has more mossy trailside cliffs, a few more waterfalls and seeps, maybe a little less elevation gain, less falling hazards, and a reach of the river called “The Narrows”. There is one place where you pass behind a waterfall in a bit of a “cave”.  On the minus side, there was a bit of walking next to the road and under power lines.  The old-growth was a little nicer on the lower portion, but there were some really nice open, cathedral-like stands on this part too.

The Narrows is visible from the main road as you drive in and it consists of a narrowing of the river channel between basalt mounds.  It’s a great place to stop for lunch.

Kate couldn’t/wouldn’t make the crossing of Pup Creek Falls to tie our hikes together (it was pretty high), but I’d guess we’ve only missed about 30 yards of trail.

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  • 9.7 mi
    Distance

  • 4 hrs 4 min
    Moving Time

  • 4 hrs 41 min
    Total Time

  • 2.4 mph
    Moving Speed

  • 2.1 mph
    Avg Speed

  • 29:09 min/mi
    Pace

  • 37 min
    Stopped Time

  • 1011 ft
    Ascent

  • 1035 ft
    Descent

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