Battle Creek from Elk Lake Hike
From Oregon Hikers Field Guide
- Start point: Elk Lake Trailhead
- End point: Battle Creek Shelter
- Trail Log: Trail Log
- Hike Type: Out-and-back
- Distance: 8.4 miles
- Elevation gain: 1,100 feet
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Seasons: Summer, Fall
- Family Friendly: Yes
- Backpackable: Yes
- Crowded: No
Contents |
Hike Description
Remote and wild, the Elk Lake Creek Trail follows Elk Lake Creek through the Bull of the Woods Wilderness 8.9 miles between Elk Lake on the south end and a trailhead on the northern end on Road 6380. This hike describes a 4.2 mile section starting at Elk Lake. This trail does not see much use or maintenance so you may encounter brush and downed trees. But the bonus is that you will see few (if any) other hikers.
The trail heads off into the trees, passing the Bull of the Woods Wilderness boundary almost immediately. The creek for which this trail is named is completely out of sight (and earshot). The trail ambles through a forest of large trees, some of which are enormous old growth. Enjoy blooming rhododendrons in early summer and ripe huckleberries in late summer. Although the trail may be brushy in spots, it is always easy to follow.
The trail descends down to a flat area with a signless signpost. This is the intersection with the Mother Lode Trail, which heads off to your left. This flat area used to be the site of the Battle Creek Shelter but it is long gone. There is plenty of room for backpackers to set up camp here. Even if you are not backpacking it is worthwhile to take a look at pretty Elk Lake Creek, which flows along the edge of this area. This makes a great spot to stop for lunch.
Return the way you came.
Maps
- Green Trails Maps: Battle Ax, OR #524
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness, Bull of the Woods Wilderness, Opal Creek Wilderness, Opal Creek Scenic Recreation Area
- Geo-Graphics: Bull of the Woods and Opal Creek Wilderness Map
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: Clackamas River Ranger District
- U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: Mt. Hood National Forest
Regulations or Restrictions, etc.
- Most of the hike is within the Bull Of The Woods Wilderness Area. All wilderness area restrictions apply.
Trip Reports
- Search Trip Reports for Battle Creek
Related Discussions / Q&A
- Search Trail Q&A for Battle Creek
Guidebooks that cover this hike
- 101 Hikes in the Majestic Mount Jefferson Region by Matt Reeder
- 100 Hikes In The Central Oregon Cascades - by William L. Sullivan (1st Edition, 1991)
More Links
- See more information at The Elk Lake Trail page on Trail Advocates
Contributors
- justpeachy (creator)