Willamette National Forest: Crescent Mountain Trail

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Campsite on the summit of Crescent Mountain

Crescent Mountain comes in at 5,750 feet making it one of the highest peaks in the Old Cascades. Long worn down by the ravages of time these peaks are half the elevation of the newer Cascades. An area that is often overlooked by hikers and backpackers is the Old Cascades trail network. The Crescent Mountain trial is an awesome day hike and could be used as the southern leg of a multi-day backpacking trip. 

Southern trailhead
The trail is open to both equestrians and mountain bikers, though I didn't see any trace of either. You begin the hike through a young forest of primarily Douglas Fir alongside the beautiful Maude Creek. Once you reach a bridge and cross Maude Creek the somewhat difficult climb begins.


While crossing Maude Creek keep your eyes open for Huckleberries, I found a few early season ones. As you climb you pass into a much more impressive mature forest, with some fairly large trees. 

Huckleberries








 After about 3 miles you will walk into a beautiful meadow which will give you the first epic views of the hike. If you hike here in June or July the wildflowers would be impressive, probably not quite like Iron Mountain, but still awesome. 


The Sisters from Crescent Mountain trail
Just before the summit and the steepest part of the trail you will reenter a dark Fir forest, keep right at the trail junction to reach the summit. If you're planning on a longer hike after you summit Crescent Mountain the other trail will be the one you take.


The view from the meadow earlier was just a preview of the views that await you. There is a lot of wood and some broken glass from what I believe was an old fire lookout. There a few campsites on top, that would make for dramatic sunrises and sunsets, if you don't mind carrying a lot of water it would be an unforgettable spot.

Just before the summit of Crescent Mountain
Mount Jefferson with smoke to the north
Far below you in the valley that gives Crescent Mountain it's shape is a beautiful looking lake, if one was ambitious you could hike down and have it to yourself. Though judging by a relatively close clear-cut, there is probably an easier way to the lake.



 If you're looking for a decent workout, awesome views and solitude than this is a hike for you. Also nearby is Daly Lake, with almost car camping and great swimming it's worth checking out.   


Directions from Sweet Home: Follow Highway 20 east for about 43 miles, turn left on Forest Road 2067, follow for 1 mile turn left onto FR 508. There is a large trailhead sign pointing down FR 508. Follow until the end.


Hike Distance: 8.6 from the southern trailhead to summit and back




Hike Type: Out and Back


Elevation Gain: 1740

Highest Point: Crescent Mountain 5,750 feet

Usage: Light

Difficulty: 3 out of 5

Fees: None
Location: Unnamed Rd, Willamette National Forest, Foster, OR 97345, USA

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