Douglas Trail

On a crisp, sunny morning, I began my adventure by parking at the 3,500-foot elevation of the Douglas Trailhead, situated on the western flank of the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness. As I started my ascent toward the ridge, the panorama stretched across the Eagle Creek drainage, revealing a breathtaking display of natural beauty. The vista was truly magnificent, setting the stage for an unforgettable hike.

Wildcat Mountain

After another three-quarters mile, a short path led to the top of 4,500-foot Wildcat Mountain, an old fire lookout site. The area has become very overgrown with trees growing higher every year. When I first started hiking to the summit, there were still great views to the east of Mt. Hood.

After leaving the old lookout site, I continued on the Douglas Trail another three-quarters mile to a spectacular rocky viewpoint. Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Jefferson, along with the entire expanse of the Wilderness area, were laid out on a 360° palette of beauty before me.

I then turned around and hiked north about two miles to a bear-grass meadow with a bench. It’s a well-known spot with one of the best up-front views of Mt. Hood from the southwest.

Soon, after enjoying a snack, I returned to the trailhead. It was a very pleasant eight-mile hike with a 1,700-foot gain. By the way, for those with lots of stamina and a willingness to do some bushwhacking, the hike can be extended to include Huckleberry Mountain (See my post: Two Mountains on a Sunny Day).