Trip report by: Gary Calicott
"I would definitely recommend this trip to a friend."
From the trailhead, this trail crosses Clark Creek on a footbridge at .5 miles as you enter the Mt. Hood Wilderness Boundary. At about one mile is a crossing of glacially fed Newton Creek. There is no bridge accros the creek and during the spring melt off this crossing can be dangerous!
Photo: Newton Creek.
The trail climbs steeply out of the canyon for approximately .75 miles then levels off at 5300 ft at the junction of Elk Meadows Perimeter Tral. At this point you can go either right or left to make a 1 mile circle of the meadow. There is a shelter that has a wonderful view of both the Elk Meadows and Mt. Hood at the midway point.
There are several other trails that can be accessed from the meadow, including the Gnarl Ridge Trail, that give access to the Timberline Trail #600 which circumnavigates Mt Hood.
Getting there: Begin this hike by following Elk Meadows Trail #645 from the parking area at 4600 ft on FS Road 3545 off Hwy 35.
Note: This is backcountry wilderness travel. Any trail can become very dangerous in winter conditions. You are responsible for informing yourself of the hazards and taking the necessary precautions. Please read Terms of Use.