Getting There
I took Hwy 26 from Portland to Zig Zag and turn left onto E Lolo Pass Rd. After 4.2 miles, turn right onto Muddy Fork Rd. After 0.7 miles it becomes 1828. Continue for another 5.6 miles until the paved road changes to dirt & gravel, veer right. The Top Spur trailhead 1.5 miles from the last junction.
The parking area was completely full and dozens of cars parked along the shoulder. I only encountered a handful of hikers on the trail leading me to believe most of the cars belonged to overnight backpackers. I crossed paths with many loopers on my way back to the trailhead. But I also noticed that virtually all the cars that were parked on the shoulder had left.
The Hike
Elev. gain: 2,539 ft
Moving time: 4:04:02
Avg pace: 29:19
Calories: 2,150
Total time: 4:20:36
This was my first hike in almost a month that wasn't a trail work party. Unforunately, I got a late start and didn't get to the trailhead until about 2pm. I knew I had plenty of daylight, I still didn't linger for very long at any one spot to enjoy the surroundings and scenery. When I'd decided to hike this trail, I wanted to hike up to Ho Rock (Cathedral Ridge) but I didn't get there until about 5pm.
Nevertheless, the views on this route are incredible. The last time I was here in late Aug 2023, it was raining and Mt Hood was obscured by clouds. The first time I did this hike in July 2022, I'd gone all the way up to Ho Rock.
I crossed paths with so many backpackers, esp. when I was on my way back to the trailhead. I wasn't feeling great but kept going anyway. When I got to the lakes with the White Pasqueflowers, I met a couple that asked me about my MSHI patch. We chatted for 10-15 mins before parting ways. I thought maybe I'd go as far as the McNeil/Timberline junction then turn back but reaching the shelter was still a goal. I decided it was faster to continue on the loop than double-back. It was the right choice.
The backside of the route is incredible. Great views of the nearby Cascade Mountains (St Helens, Rainier, Adams) and northwestern flank of Mt Hood.
From the bench near the shelter, the views were incredible. I could see the lakes I passed through earlier. Plus, more views of the Cascades.
I already knew I was taking the "shortcut" back to the Timberline Trail. This was going to be my third time going down the "elevator" shaft. It was familiar but also lots of room for error. I made sure to be take each step carefully.
Like last time (2023), I met a solo hiker coming up. I thought that they were ascending pretty late and also questioned my need to get back before it got dark. I probably could have stayed up there for awhile and still had plenty of daylight. Plus, it's a well marked trail, there were dozens of backpackers, and I had a flashlight. I may go back again soon and do the extra hike to Ho Rock. (Or, hike from Vista Ridge to Barrett Spur).
This photo was taken at about 5:30pm. See how high the sun in the sky. Plenty of time to linger.
