Clarno's Geologic Wonders

Activity Notes

See fossil trees and nut beds preserved by lahars 44 million years ago on a 7 mile hike at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument's Clarno unit. Our route includes one bouldering move, an ascent slightly easier than the upper section of Ape Cave.

There is no shade anywhere on our route. Proper footwear, trekking poles, and sun/wind protection are a must. Hazards include possible mud, ticks and rattlesnakes. I'll be wearing gaiters.

This hike is paired with Gooseneck Loop Off-Trail Adventure on Saturday 10/16/2021. If you wish to do one or both hikes, I encourage camping at Cottonwood Canyon State Park, where the fee is $10 per vehicle, and the sites are first-come, first-served, Friday and/or Saturday nights. Note that there is absolutely no cell service in the park, and it can be very windy there.

Due to Delta, I am not listing a carpool location, but if fully vaccinated folks choose to carpool (masks highly encouraged), I will put signed-up hikers in touch with each other. All roads are paved and accessible to all vehicles, and there is no fee to park in day-use areas.