Memaloose and Clackamas Falls Trail

This trail is considered very challenging and non-traditional. It involves a remote scramble with significant obstacles, including a ropes course, narrow ledges, and a precarious log bridge crossing over a chasm. It's a demanding hike best suited for experienced adventurers.

The trail is known for its adventurous character, featuring a 'ropes course' with about five lengths to aid descents, passage through several bat caves and tunnels (some very wet, requiring a light), and a chasm crossing, reportedly via two downed trees. You'll also encounter the beautiful South Fork Clackamas Falls and Memaloose Falls.

Given the trail's challenging and rugged nature, including muddy sections and overgrown areas, the best time to hike is typically during the drier months of late spring, summer, and early fall. This avoids snow and ice, which would make the already difficult terrain even more hazardous.

Due to the extreme difficulty, including a ropes course, chasm crossing, and bat caves, this trail is generally not recommended for dogs. The terrain poses significant risks and challenges that most dogs would not be able to navigate safely.

Yes, as this trail is located within the Mount Hood National Forest, you may need a recreation pass. Options typically include a Northwest Forest Pass, an America the Beautiful Pass, or a day-use pass. Always check the official USDA Forest Service website for the most current requirements before your visit.

The trail begins with an initial 1.5 miles along an old logging road before reaching an unmarked trailhead. Parking is typically found at the start of this logging road, but specific designated parking areas can be limited due to the remote nature of the hike.

Given the trail's challenging nature, you should bring sturdy hiking boots, gloves for the ropes, a headlamp or flashlight for the bat caves, and plenty of water and snacks. Wearing long pants is also advisable due to overgrown sections. Be prepared for muddy conditions and potential exposure.

Yes, it's important to distinguish this strenuous route from others. The Memaloose Hills Trail in the Columbia River Gorge is an easier option known for wildflowers. The Memaloose Lake Trail #515 in Mt. Hood National Forest is moderate, leading to a lake through old-growth forest, offering a more traditional hiking experience.

Yes, sections of this route overlap with other paths. Approximately 21% of the route follows the Cascading Rivers Scenic Bikeway, and about 18% aligns with a path specifically named 'clackamas falls'.

The trail includes passage through several bat caves and tunnels, which are remnants of a 1915 plan to bring water to Oregon City. Some of these sections can be very wet and dark, so a reliable light source like a headlamp or flashlight is essential for safe navigation.

While official maps for this specific 'adventurous scramble' version can be scarce due to its unofficial nature, komoot provides a detailed tour map for the Memaloose and Clackamas Falls Trail, which can help with navigation. Always download offline maps as cell service may be unreliable.