Natural Arch Hike
From Oregon Hikers Field Guide
- Start point: Natural Arch Trailhead
- End point: Natural Arch
- Trail Log: Trail Log
- Hike Type: Out and Back
- Distance: 1.0 miles out and back
- High Point: 3,860 feet
- Elevation gain: 460 feet
- Difficulty: Easy
- Seasons: Spring - Fall
- Family Friendly: yes, for older kids
- Backpackable: No
- Crowded: No
Contents |
Hike Description
This hike is located in the Santiam State Forest which is heavily managed for timber production. The 50-foot tall, 40-foot wide arch was discovered in 1951 after the Sardine Creek Fire scoured the hillside and removed the tree cover.
From the Natural Arch Trailhead, go back ten yards and find the trail. The trail makes four switchbacks in secondary forest to the nose of a ridge. Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and vine maple predominate over a bear-grass, bracken and Oregon grape understory. Cross a scree slope and drop steeply down to make six switchbacks. Some of the steepness is ameliorated by wood-reinforced steps. Then, there’s a short traverse down to a rock face. You can scramble through the arch and down to the right and then climb up to the top of the rock and go right to sit on the top of the arch. Small caves indent the base of the arch. Be careful! Combine this visit with the nearby Rocky Top Hike.
Maps
Regulations or Restrictions, etc.
- No passes needed for the trailhead.
Trip Reports
- Search Trip Reports for Natural Arch
Related Discussions / Q&A
- Search Trail Q&A for Natural Arch
Guidebooks that cover this destination
- 101 Hikes in the Majestic Mount Jefferson Region by Matt Reeder
More Links
- Santiam State Forest Recreation Guide (Santiam State Forest)
- "Views worth the effort to Natural Rock Arch Trail" (Statesman Journal)
- Santiam Forest, Natural Bridge and Rocky Top (Compact Camping Concepts)