Dery's South Summit, Mount Pisgah, and Beistel's East Summit Loop

This moderate hike typically takes around 2 hours and 27 minutes to complete. This duration is an estimate and can vary based on your pace, stops for views, and trail conditions.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll encounter a mix of surfaces, including a steep, gravel road leading to the Mount Pisgah summit, which can be loose and slippery. Other sections utilize old service roads that are wide and smooth, while some parts traverse through prairie and oak woodland. Expect transitions from shady areas to more open, sunny sections as you gain elevation.

Yes, there is a parking fee to access the Howard Buford Recreation Area, which includes the trailheads for this loop. You can typically pay at the entrance or via a self-service station. No specific hiking permits are required for the trails themselves.

Yes, the trails in the Howard Buford Recreation Area, including this loop, are generally dog-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.

While the trails are accessible year-round, spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. In spring, the oak savanna bursts with wildflowers, including camas lilies, creating a vibrant display. Autumn offers pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage. Clear days provide the best panoramic views from the summit.

The loop offers exceptional and expansive views, especially from the summit of Mount Pisgah. You can enjoy panoramic vistas of the Willamette Valley, the foothills of Oregon's Central Cascades, and the cities of Eugene and Springfield. On clear days, you might even spot snow-capped Diamond Peak and the Three Sisters mountains. A metal map at the summit helps identify landmarks.

Parking is available at the main trailhead for Mount Pisgah within the Howard Buford Recreation Area. Be aware that there is a parking fee, and the lot can fill up quickly on busy weekends, so arriving early is recommended.

Yes, this route utilizes sections of several official trails within the park. You will hike along parts of the Summit Trail, Trail #6, Trail #2, Trail #3, and Trail #46 as you complete the loop.

The primary challenge on this moderate loop comes from the steep sections, particularly the gravel road leading to the Mount Pisgah summit. This part can be loose and slippery, requiring careful footing. The elevation gain of approximately 300 meters is concentrated in these ascents.

The area is known for its diverse habitats. As you hike, you'll pass through oak savannas, forest groves, and grassy fields. In spring, these areas are particularly vibrant with wildflowers, showcasing the rich biodiversity of the region.

While the entire loop offers scenic beauty, the summit of Mount Pisgah itself is a major landmark, providing the most expansive views. Additionally, the nearby settlement of Pleasant Hill is a notable point of interest in the broader area.