Anglers are the main users of this Clackamas Wilderness trail, which drops to the Clackamas River’s South Fork. It covers about 1.4 miles from Forest Road 45 (2,400 feet) to the riverbank (1,520 feet), losing 880 feet along the way, so save some energy for the climb back.
The first 0.1 mile follows an old abandoned road south. The path then continues 0.7 mile to a set of switchbacks that descend the final 0.6 mile to the water. From Estacada, leave Highway 224 for Oregon Highway 211 and go 4.8 miles, turn left on Forest Road 45 (South Hillockburn Road), and drive 6.7 miles. Parking is on the east side.
Trail map & elevation
- Trail class
- Class 2 of 5
- Typical grade
- 12-20%
- Surface
- Native material
- Tread width
- 18-24 inches
- Ranger district
- Clackamas River
More about the Clackamas Wilderness and its trails →
Line, length and trail class: U.S. Forest Service trail data. Elevation: USGS 3D Elevation Program. Difficulty is our estimate for hiking it out and back (once around for a loop), from distance and total climb. Lines can be off by a few hundred feet; carry a real map and check the official page for closures.
Getting there
From Estacada
- From Hwy 224 , turn right onto OR Hwy 211 and travel 4.8 miles to South Hillockburn Road.
- Turn left onto South Hillockburn Road (Forest Road 45) and travel 6.7 miles to the parking area for the trailhead on the east side of the road.
From the Forest Service
Rules and restrictions
Wilderness restrictions apply. Please practice leave no trace principles - pack out everything you packed in!