Not for novice hikers! This loop hike at Oregon’s second-largest state park, two hours east of Portland, involves off-trail scrambling, descending a steep ravine, traversing angled slopes, straddling basalt boulders, and the like. Be tick-safe, rattlesnake-aware, and wind-ready. For our efforts, we’ll see bighorn sheep, windmills, and lots of John Day River geology. 

Activity Notes

Cottonwood Canyon's Gooseneck Loop is an off-trail adventure I lead annually. In 2025 our route burned shortly after I led it. I went back to scout it recently and found that since only grasses burned, the route is essentially unchanged. We still find our way through a series of rocks, and I've never gone the same way twice. Our stats will likely be 6.1 miles with 1,350' of gain, but this is no easy walk in the woods. Most of our route is on rocks, at times steep, so good footwear is a must. Poles will also be very handy. When I led this hike in April 2025, there were flowers, and I expect there to still be flowers. Also, every time I've been there in recent years we've seen bighorn sheep. 

Folks may want to note that I've scheduled this hike for Easter Sunday. Note too that our route will be 100% exposed to the elements (sun, wind, sprinkles). 

We are gathering into carpools at Gateway Transit Center parking garage 07:00 and will arrive at Cottonwood Canyon, parking wherever the restrooms are open, approximately two hours later. Directions can be viewed at https://maps.app.goo.gl/v1L4p6QHLaWuwAhU8. 

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 122 miles
Driving Time from Portland 2 hours
Distance - Round Trip 8 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Interesting Features Basalt Columns, Spectacular Views
Relevant Books PDX Hiking 365
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