Crescent Mountain Hike

Overview

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 conifers. 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 Mount Hood in the north to the Three Sisters in the south. Return the way you came.

Trail Stats

Photos

400px-CrescentMountainMap

400px-CrescentMountainMap

250px-Crescentjefferson

250px-Crescentjefferson

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250px-LookingSouthFromCrescentMountainTrail

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250px-ThreeSistersFromCrescentMountainTrail

400px-Crescentbeargrass

400px-Crescentbeargrass

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