Agency: USDA Forest Service Location: 2 hours east of Medford or Roseburg, Oregon in the Southern Oregon Cascades. Difficulty: Most Difficult Distance: 5 miles (round trip) High Point: 9,182 feet Season: July through September or first snow.

Description

The trail leads through lodgepole pine for the first mile. Timberline is at approximately 7200 feet elevation. The mountain hemlock-true fir type is predominant. Inviting glimpses of Mt. Thielsen are evident as one progresses. A breath taking view of Mt. Thielsen presents itself just beyond the Spruce Ridge Trail junction 1.6 miles.

As you reach the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail 2.9 miles, the glacial features of this volcanic peak loom before you. From the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a scramble trail works its way to the spire pointed peak at 9,182 feet elevation. The trail is a steep climb, particularly above timberline beyond which there are no markers. The last 200 feet is a difficult hand-over-hand climb. Elevation gain is 3,782 feet.

Hiking boots and caution are highly recommended for climbing on the loose rocky slopes. Those brave and energetic enough to make it to the top, should add their names to the climbing register found there. The view of the east and west sides of the Cascades, from the Sisters to Mt. Shasta, is incredible.

This trail is used in the winter time by Nordic skiers up to the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.

Access

Go 1.5 miles north of the Highway 230/Highway 138 road junction near Diamond Lake. The trailhead parking lot is located along the east side of Highway 138. Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at this trailhead.

Umpqua National Forest Recreation Map reference number is L-6. Located at Township 28 south, Range 5 1/2 east, Section 16.

Links

• Climb Mt. Thielsen! – By Clifton E. Peterson, Ranger Naturalist, 1952

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