Larch Mountain Trail Loop is a great hike for those looking for a little bit more challenge. At a 6 mile loop this will certainly make your calves burn and you breathe short but the views and forest scenery really make this trail worth it.
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.
Learn more about this great trail at: gorgefriends.org/hike-the-gorge/larch-mountain-crater-loop.html
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