Larch Mountain Crater extended Loop HIke

Hike a loop below Larch Mountain, starting and the top and descending down the southeast side below the crater and looping back to the top of Larch Mountain from the north.

Note: This route is a bit further than the 'standard' Larch Mountain Crater hike.

We’ll start at the Larch Mountain Parking Lot and take the newly established Goat trail down to the top of the Oneonta Trail #424. We take that trail down the ridge line to the Multnomah Spur Trail #446, using that to cross over Multnomah Creek at which point we’ll stop for a lunch break. Then continue over to the Larch Mountain Trail #441 and taking that back to the top, stopping at Sherrard Point before returning to the parking lot.

The first two miles are pretty much all down surrounded by tall evergreens. The next two miles are pretty level and you’ll find the trail surrounded by patches of lush moss and more tall trees. Finally, after crossing Multnomah Creek, the last two miles will involve about 1200 feet of steep up-hill.

Pace: Level 2 (2 to 2.5 mph) moderate pace, with time for breaks and enjoying the scenery.

We’ll carpool from Gateway Transit Center, meet at 8:00 am, departing at 8:10 am. Or, alternately, meet at the Larch Mountain parking lot at 9:00 am. Expect to return to the Gateway Transit Center by 4 pm.

Driving Distance from Gateway Transit Center 33 miles each way. (~50 minutes)