This rewarding tour features wildflowers, wetlands, meadows, and spectacular views along the trail and from a historic 1933 cabin and former lookout site.
We'll follow Rhododendron Ridge first up through reforested clearcuts with flowering meadows, then old growth, finally dropping into an unusual wetland-filled valley before climbing to the top of 5277 ft. Hawk Mountain. This route is easy to moderate and is 2.3 miles each way with about 900 elevation gain. Some sections require moderate climbs, but the grade on average is easy. The tour is within Berry Creek and Collowash sub-basins of the Clackamas Basin.
We will meet at the Estacada River Ranger District, located off of Highway 224. All tours are led by CRBC Board member Bryon Boyce.
Bring plenty of water, a camera, bug spray, and a lunch. Be aware that temperatures in the upper watershed are cooler than down below, and wear appropriate footwear.