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

Gooseneck Loop is an off-trail adventure starting and ending at Cottonwood Canyon State Park in north-central Oregon. Hiking boots and trekking poles are mandatory, and gaiters are recommended as it's tick country. Expect very steep terrain that's alternatingly grassy, muddy, and rocky. The loop turns back at a bike-ped trail along the John Day River, but before that you can expect challenges unlike anything experienced on trails. This is a trip for folks with experience in off-trail terrain. The rewards are views unlike anything within a two hour drive of Portland; bring binoculars if you wish to spot bighorn sheep. 
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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