Not sure what kind of distance I can expect to cover. In my day job is not unusual for me to walk 4-7 miles a day, often carrying a heavy backpack full of tools. I should actually weight it! At the same time I have no desire to prove anything on my first trip.
It'd be nice to do a larger chunk the first day then have an easy 2nd day. So for example, hike 7 miles in, turn around and hike 2 miles back. Then on the second day I'd only have to hike 5 miles back to the car.
- Maximum 2.5 hour drive from Portland. The shorter the drive the better.
- Secluded/un-crowded. I'm an introvert who works with people all day. So when I go camping I prefer to be in solitude.
- Accessible with low-clearance vehicle. I'm happy to drive down a dirt/gravel road for a few miles but I just have a normal car.
- I'm not afraid of some elevation gain.
- I love a good view but would trade it for solitude.
Gumjuwac-Badget Lake Loop is at the top of the list.
Boulder Lakes Loop Kinda short, might be more populated?
East ZigZag from Devil Canyon?
I don't need to do a whole trail. What longer trails should I consider doing a section of?