Crescent Mountain Hike
From Oregon Hikers Field Guide
- Start point: Crescent Mountain Trailhead
- End point: Crescent Mountain
- Trail Log: Trail Log
- Hike Type: In and out
- Distance: 9 miles
- Elevation gain: 2,200 feet
- High Point: 5,750 feet
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Seasons: June through October
- Family Friendly: Yes, for older children
- Backpackable: No
- Crowded: No
Contents |
Description
This hike is difficult but with great rewards at the summit that include huge wildflower meadows and expansive views.
From the trailhead the trail loses a bit of elevation in the first mile. Hike through the shady forest, often within hearing distance of Maude Creek. Blue huckleberries can be found along the trail in July. At 1.3 miles you'll cross Maude Creek on a sturdy wooden footbridge. This is the last water source you'll see before the summit.
The trail remains level for a little while longer before beginning the long climb up the summit. The trail climbs steadily, sometimes switchbacking, through a forest of vine maple and lichen-draped trees. Finally after about three miles you'll emerge from the forest into a series of large open meadows. In a good beargrass year you'll see thousands of the unusual white flowers blooming here along with paintbrush, columbine, larskpur, and scarlet gilia.
After 3.7 miles you'll re-enter the forest for the final push to the summit. When you reach a fork in the trail go right (the left fork is the continuation of the mail trail, if you're looking for an even longer hike). In a moment you'll find yourself on the summit of Crescent Mountain. Scattered lumber and melted glass still remain from the fire lookout that once sat here. Views range from Mt. Hood to the north to the Three Sisters to the south.
Return the way you came.
Fees, Regulations, etc.
- none
Maps
- Maps: Hike Finder
Trip Reports
- Search Trip Reports for Crescent Mountain
Related Discussions / Q&A
- Search Trail Q&A for Crescent Mountain
Guidebooks that cover this hike
100 Hikes in the Central Oregon Cascades, 4th Edition by William L. Sullivan
More Links
Page Contributors
- justpeachy (creator)