Little North Santiam Trail Loop

No, the Little North Santiam Trail Loop is currently closed. It was significantly impacted by the 2020 Beachie Creek Fire, and its reopening status is uncertain at this time. It's always best to check the latest conditions before planning a visit.

Before its closure, the trail offered varied terrain. It was generally well-maintained with an easy-to-walk tread, but not consistently flat. Joggers would encounter a mix of uphill and downhill sections, including one notably steep stretch of about 2.5 miles. The path could be soggy in areas, transitioning to rocky sections, and involved multiple creek crossings, mostly with sturdy bridges.

The trail was renowned for its captivating scenery, offering continuous views of the designated State Scenic Little North Santiam River with its crystal-clear, deep green, and turquoise waters, rapids, and numerous waterfalls. Joggers passed through thick Douglas fir forests, with areas featuring electric green moss and lichens covering rocks and trees. Occasional viewpoints provided expansive vistas of the river canyon and Henline Mountain.

The trail was generally considered to be of moderate difficulty for jogging, primarily due to its length and elevation gain. While some sections were easy, others involved significant ascents and descents, such as a 400-foot climb after Triple Falls. Jogging on the trail when wet could be particularly challenging due to the need for constant attention to footing.

While specific regulations for this trail are currently unavailable due to its closure, trails within the Willamette National Forest typically allow dogs, often requiring them to be on a leash. It's advisable to check with the Forest Service for current rules once the trail reopens.

As the Little North Santiam Trail Loop is located within the Willamette National Forest, visitors may need a recreation pass depending on the specific area and amenities used. Common passes include the Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass. It's best to check the U.S. Forest Service website for the most current information on required passes and fees for the Willamette National Forest.

Before its closure, the trail could be accessed from a western trailhead. While specific parking details are currently unavailable due to the closure, popular trails in national forests typically have designated parking areas near trailheads. It's recommended to research updated access points and parking information once the trail reopens.

Before its closure, the warmer months were particularly popular, especially for enjoying the swimming holes. However, the trail's beauty could be appreciated in spring and fall as well, with vibrant mosses and diverse waterfalls. Winter jogging could be

The trail was known for several scenic points. Within the first mile, joggers could see Little Falls. A major highlight was the Three Pools area, famous for its beautiful deep turquoise pools and a unique rock sculpture. The entire route followed the Little North Santiam Trail, offering continuous river views.

Yes, the route incorporated sections of several trails. It primarily followed the Little North Santiam Trail #3338 for a significant portion. It also passed through a section of the Henline Falls Trail #3348 and utilized Forest Road 2209-201 and Evans Mountain Road for smaller segments.

The Little North Santiam Trail Loop was a beloved local gem, providing access to the stunning natural beauty of the Little North Santiam River and hinting at the unparalleled wilderness upstream in the Opal Creek Wilderness. Its popularity stemmed from its beautiful swimming holes, particularly Three Pools, which were a major draw in warmer months. It offered a sensory feast with vibrant green mosses, diverse waterfalls, and the unique color of the river's water.