Mazamas — For the Love of Mountains
For a hike that gains almost exactly 4,000 feet, this excursion seems relatively forgiving for those in decent shape. The gain is, in fact, constant, and usually not steep enough to quicken your heart beat once you set your pace. The goal is the volcanic plug at the top of Larch Mountain known as Sherrard Point. The mountain itself is one of the three Boring stratovolcanoes (the others being Mount Sylvania and Highland Butte) and is the highest point in the west Gorge; thus, the views are expansive. In addition, throw in some imposing old-growth Douglas-firs and hemlocks, and a variety of Gorge blooms at Sherrard Point in the summer. The lower 4 1/2 miles of the route was scorched by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire, with the understory burned out in lower sections and areas of crown fire as you get higher up. The Larch Mountain Trail crosses the westernmost tongue of the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. A car shuttle will make this a seven-mile traverse hike. More info: http://www.portlandhikersfieldguide.org/wiki/Larch_Mountain_Hike
Activity Notes
This is scenic out-and-back route with a steady 4000 feet of elevation gain. You don't need a parking permit to park at the Multnomah Falls Trailhead this time of year.
Please bring snowshoes and/or microspikes since trip reports say there is snow on the trail above 1500 ft. Make sure to bring warm layers and waterproof gear to stay warm and dry, including rain pants. An extra pair of dry gloves and dry socks may come in handy.
Please bring your climbing gear in case the weather allows us to practice rope skills.
| Other Information | |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance from Portland | 48 miles |
| Distance - Round Trip | 13 miles |
| Expected Duration | Car to car in one day |
| Relevant Maps | CG2 |
| Awards Qualified | Awesome Ridges Award, Gorge High Points, Wild Ones |
| Useful Links | GPS Coordinates Map |
