On August 4, 2018 some of our Dirt Therapy crew set out to hike the Opal Creek Trail. The Opal Creek Wilderness and Recreation Area, including Opal Creek Trail, is nestled in the Willamette National Forest and a number of creeks, including Opal Creek, feed into the Santiam River.
It was a perfect day, cool and breezy among the old growth trees, crystal clear water and interesting remnants of an older time left to be consumed by nature.
Info on the Hike:
- Difficulty: Moderate. Gravel, rock, dirt, tree roots, fallen trees.
- Distance: 7.2 mile round trip
- Parking Pass Required: Yes – $6.00
- Best Season: April – October
- Pets Allowed: Yes. Leashes not required.
- Highlights: Sawmill Falls, Opal Pools, Jawbone Flats (Population: 15), Natural Rock Slides (cold but fun!), Abandoned Mill Equipment, The Ancient Forest
- Recommended Gear: Bladder Pack, Walking Sticks, Snacks, Swim Suits and Quick-Dry Clothing, Hiking Shoes (for hard surfaces), Sunscreen, Lightweight Camera
Want to know some history about Opal Creek forest, Jawbone Flats and the “Forest Wars”? Check out this article
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