It’s not always the ornate historical cities, renowned museums, or stylish cafes that inspire me…I find inspiration in NATURE.
John Muir, American’s most influential naturalist and conservationist, once said,
“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt”.
In the shadow of Mount Hood, an 11,240 ft. peak known to be the most climbed glacier peak in North American and second in the world behind Japan’s Mt. Fuji, I was introduced to one of the most memorable 2-mile dirt paths I ever walked - pure hiking heaven. Located near Welch’s, Oregon, the Old Salmon River Trail #742A is part of the 1,200 miles of hiking trails within Mt. Hood National Forest. Although secluded, it’s accessible being just a 50-minute drive southeast of Portland.
I was scouting an episode on Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory for a series airing on PBS member stations. My goal was to find a spectacularly scenic but manageable hiking trail. After all, I would be returning with a cast & crew of 10, camera, audio & grip equipment and a 2-hour time frame to film this hiking scene.
When it comes to trails, especially in an expansive national forest, enlist the help of a local who knows the terrain. Greg “Chopper” Moreno, an experienced guide with Mt. Hood Outfitters, knew this territory inside and out. Just under 2 miles long, the Old Salmon River Trail #742A zig zags alongside the scenic Salmon River, always in view or within earshot. Its trail head is just steps from the road with ample parking close by.
Other than the short hill up at the start, nothing is too difficult about this trail, except for crossing a few fallen logs or walking over a couple log bridges with rushing creeks below. At times you are literally walking on a pathway of hemlock needles all the while surrounded by an old-growth forest with 10-foot-thick red cedars and spruce trees the size of skyscrapers, the daintiest of wildflowers, and passing through areas where moss-covered trees look like they are straight out of a movie set or fairy tale. You will even find a few sandy beaches with deep pools suitable for a chilly summer dip. To me, early morning hikes are the best allowing you to enjoy watching the dew melt and drip off the pines in the rising sun with mist surrounding you. Old Salmon River Trail – the perfect place to get a little dirt on your shoes.
Travel Tips –
Mt. Hood is an active volcano (its last major eruption was back in 1790’s)
Best Hiking Season - April through October. Warmest months - July & August.
Purchase a Recreation Pass either online or at the Zig Zag Ranger Station.
Pet-friendly trail.
Hike early in the day and on weekdays to avoid busy trails.
Never hike alone.
Pack water, sunscreen, a light source and small first aid kit.
Wear layers for the ever-changing Oregon weather, after all it is the Pacific Northwest.
Remember what you carry in, please carry out.
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