4.7 hr
Overview
This trail takes you deep into forests of the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area. The trail climbs gradually through a mix of fir and hemlock, past small lakes to the intersection with Start O' Willamette. <br><br>The Start O' Willamette Trail heads south back to Timpanogas Lake at about the two miles. If you look carefully, you can get a glimpse of Amos Lake and Andy Lake.<br><br>From the intersection, climb up a series of switchbacks before the route levels out for a brief time. The grade kicks up again as the forest cover begins to open up with occasional views across the lake basin towards Sawtooth Mountain.<br><br>As the route reaches one of its high points, it turns back to the southwest and descends for a short time back into the deep forest. <br><br>The trail punches up to a ridge and a large vista before meeting the upper end of the Indigo Extension.<br><br>Enjoy a fun and rippin' descent along the southeast flank of Sawtooth Mountain before the final climb.<br><br>The last climb is the hardest, taking you across a rugged (and beautiful) scree slope below the summit of the Sawtooth Mountain. When you reach the open ridge, take a moment to soak in the views.<br><br>From here, enjoy the final stretch of trail on a winding descent to the Sawtooth trail.
Trail Stats
15.1 km
530 m
2108 m
1745 m
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Photos
Descending Windy Pass trail on the backside of Sawtooth Mountain.
Descending Windy Pass trail on the backside of Sawtooth Mountain.
Catching a little air on the Windy Pass descent.
Catching a little air on the Windy Pass descent.