58 min
Overview
This short hike to the site of a decommissioned fire lookout rewards with its expansive views up and down the Cascades. The upper meadows and summit area are also a luxuriant wildflower smorgasbord in early summer. Those wishing a longer hike with more elevation gain can begin the hike on the Saddle Trail at the East Fork Upper Trailhead on FR 1993 (add four miles to the excursion). The trail climbs up from the road and immediately reaches a four-way intersection with the Olallie Trail. Take the extreme left-hand trail to head up Horsepasture Mountain. The trail parallels the road for a while, staying in the forest, before it starts climbing. The path then switchbacks up the mountain through meadows of beargrass, Queen Anne's lace, tiger lilies, lupine, columbine, and other wildflowers. The trail emerges into the large open summit area where wildflowers bloom in July. As you make the last little push to the summit, views of the surrounding mountains emerge. You'll pass beneath a rocky point on this double-pointed mountain, but the true summit is straight ahead, marked by a USGS survey marker. A flat spot next to the summit with metal stakes marks the spot where the old fire lookout once stood. Views include Mount Hood, Mount Jefferson, Three Fingered Jack, Mount Washington, the Three Sisters, Mount Bachelor, and Diamond Peak. Return the way you came.
Trail Stats
0.0 km
288 m
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0 m
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Photos
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400px-HorsepastureMap
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250px-Horsepasturetrailhead
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400px-Horsepasture