National Trails

The National Trails System Act of 1968 led to the creation of eight long-distance National Scenic Trails dedicated to foot travel, often crossing several states, and highlighting some of the most spectacular scenery in the country. National Historic Trails were soon added to the mix, allowing hikers to travel in the footsteps of the pioneers and get a first-hand taste of what they faced as they struggled west. Here in Oregon, experience the beauty and challenge of Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail and the Oregon National Historic Trail..

Oregon section of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail

This section from near Siskiyou Summit (elev. 4,310') in southernmost Oregon to the Washington border, is not only the shortest, but is also the easiest to hike or ride. Oregon's Cascade Range is a subdued volcanic landscape, having a gentle crest that is fairly constant in elevation. The highest point in Oregon is an unnamed saddle (elev. 7,560') north of Mt. Thielson. This, and other ancient volcanoes-Diamond Peak, Mt. Washington, and Three Finger Jack, plus recently active Mt. McLoughlin, Mt. Mazama (Crater Lake), the Three Sisters, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. Hood - punctuate the skyline and can be seen from miles away. more>>>

Washington section of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail

The trail begins this section with a lengthy climb out of the Columbia River gorge and eventually reaches the crest near the Indian Heaven Wilderness, a lake-blessed land abounding with huckleberries. Next it rounds the base of mammoth Mt. Adams (elev. 12,276’). Just north is the rugged dramatic Goat Rocks Wilderness, similar to the deep glaciated canyons and towering peaks of the High Sierra, and a traverse of the Packwood Glacier. more>>>

National Historic Oregon Trail

As the harbinger of America's westward expansion, the Oregon Trail was the pathway to the Pacific Ocean for fur traders, gold seekers, missionaries and others. Today, more than 2,000 miles of trail ruts and traces can still be seen in the vast undeveloped western lands – reminders of the sacrifices, struggles, and triumphs of early American travelers and settlers. more>>>