Eagle Creek Overlook Hike

Overview

The Civilian Conservation Corps (1933 - 1942) was established during the Great Depression to offer government-funded employment to young men ages 18 - 25. CCC youth had to be U.S. citizens, unmarried, of "good character", and in good physical condition. The young men involved were able to carry skills learned into civilian life although many of the later participants were drafted into World War II. The U.S. Forest Service, then a relatively young entity, benefited greatly from CCC projects. While many CCC participants were engaged in firefighting, they also built trails, shelters, and campgrounds. The Eagle Creek Overlook was one such CCC project. Completed in 1938, the buildings, retaining walls, and trails, all in the trademark "Cascadian Rustic" style, were constructed to facilitate public viewing of the construction of the Bonneville Dam. It is a fascinating, but short, stroll around the features of this historic site. Note that the Overlook is now a picnic area and group campground for up to 90 people, the latter reserved through a concessionaire. The group campground is open May 1st to September 30th, so the Overlook Trail should only be hiked, if you are not part of a group that is camping here, from October through April. The nearby freeway and railroad do not make for this to be a quiet hike, but in the off-season, there won't be a lot of visitors around and a spring or fall visit is especially beautiful. Walk past the gate (open only to those using the group campground) to the Overlook Trailhead, and get views of the Bonneville Dam. The Overlook Trail switchbacks up through an oak copse and then under Douglas-firs as you approach the campground area. Stroll along the stone wall getting views of the dam through ponderosa pines. Pass the Civilian Conservation Corps Shelter, with its stone-columned porch, kitchen, and restrooms, where people stopped to see the building of the dam. This building underwent a restoration project in 1994. Drop a little and pick up a trail switchbacking down twice to views

Trail Stats

Photos

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