Saturday, December 08, 2018

2018.12.8. Clackmas River Trail

12/8, Saturday. Rained overnight, only overcast during the day. Three of us hiked the entire Clackmas River Trail back and forth. 16+ miles, maybe 3000' total. Despite of a long 40+ minute lunch break, and coughs and running nose (all were getting over a cold), we managed to finish in 6¾ hours, still in day light.

We started at Fish Creek TH (there is an outhouse here, not sure if it was open), and had lunch at Indian Henry Campground (closed, but plenty picnic tables. The trail is somewhat rocky, need ankle support. Well placed rocks, wood planks, one serious bridge to cross any creek. Only one short muddy section. A few down trees. Overall the trail is in great shape. Since it's close to the road, car noise is unavoidable. Pup Creek falls is a delight, covered with ice. It's a 0.2 mile detour to see the falls. Well worth it. Most hikers turn around here. It's the midway point.

East of this trail junction, after the meadow, we saw a lot of icicles. Being cold this week, all the water seeping places became hanging icicles. Quite lovely. The Narrow is the prettiest spot on the river. Don't know why there's a rope hanging in the middle. Part of the trail is in a wilderness. A few big trees.

We met at most 10 hikers. Heard gunshots. Quite cold, I wore a thin fleece all the time. Put on down for lunch. Sun broke out a bit in the afternoon. But only shone on the upper slopes, not reaching us and the river. Icicles melt a bit. Not as pretty on the way back.

When I returned to the city, it was cold and windy. Saw the Christmas tree at Pioneer Square.