An Adventureful Life

When I moved back to Oregon in 2021… I knew I wanted to thru-hike the Timberline Trail. It’s a fairly manageable distance (~41 miles), you don’t need to worry about resupply, and the logistics required are simple! You park for fee at Timberline lodge and then hike in a circle until you make it back where you started! Easy! The biggest decision is whether to go clockwise (CW) or counterclockwise (CCW)… I chose CCW and stand by that decision!

Mount Hood is where I got my first more challenging day hikes in, and where I first explored the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). My brain was pretty fixated on doing a solo section of the PCT – so I let the Timberline Trail plan get pushed aside for too long. This year, I put it on my planning calendar and told myself it was going to finally happen! Well… with all the fires popping off in Oregon, when one of my other plans fell through, I decided to jump on the Timberline Trail and finally knock it out. Since I had planned on doing this trail previously, I already had my general route planned, and in fact had purchased the Far Out digital map of the trail the year prior. So… I packed up all my gear and early the next morning I set out to thru-hike the Timberline Trail, with only a vague idea of where I planned to sleep at night.

Trip Report: Timberline Trail, Timberline Lodge to Timberline Lodge, CCW

Trip Length: ~41 miles

Day 1: Timberline Lodge to Cloud Cap Campground (14 miles)

Day 2: Cloud Cap to Paradise Park (21.6 miles)

Day 3: Paradise Park to Timberline Lodge (5.5 miles)

Day 1… Timberline Lodge to Cloud Cap (14 miles). I left a little late and didn’t arrive at Timberline Lodge until 8:45am… I grabbed my backpack, put my parking permit in the window… locked the doors and started hiking (as if I was very confident and knew what I was doing). I snapped a photo as soon as I could clearly see Mount Hood and thought… well, here we go! After I had gone about a mile, I decided to double check my Garmin InReach to make sure everything was connected… it wasn’t. Luckily, there is plenty of service on the mountain and I was able to fix whatever glitch had occurred. I sent another test message to my husband at home while my phone was in airplane mode, and once I was sure it worked – headed off again. I was nervous about all the water crossings, but just kept putting one foot in front of the other… once I got the first water-crossing done, I sighed a little in relief. At first, I would spend quite a bit of time looking for a place to rock-hop across the water, but eventually decided that taking off my socks and just walking across in my shoes was the best option. It was quicker and safer by walking through the water instead of trying to balance on rocks that may or may not be stable. It was fun to take a short break after each water crossing to get my socks back on (and get my breath back under control… apparently water crossing scared me more that I wanted to admit!). I noticed after each crossing, my mouth would be dry and my legs would be shaking… the fear is real!

When I got to Newton Crossing, there were a few people around and because of my nerves I just made my way to the water crossing before making sure I had topped off my water. Because of this blunder, I ended up having to hike nearly all the way up to Cloud Cap (many, many miles and even more elevation gain) with just my two liters of water. It was later in the day than I’m used to hiking and I had no intention of camping at a dry camp, so I was stuck having to go all the way to Cloud Cap making it a 14+ mile day. I’ve hiked that many miles before, but the section from Newton Crossing over Gnarl Ridge and on up to Cloud Cap is very exposed. It’s above the treeline and uphill most of the way, all in all I had about 4,000′ of elevation gain! Luckily, there was a nice little stream of melting glacier water where I was finally able to refill my water before Cooper Spur and get some much needed electrolytes in my system. After that, I made it to Cloud Cap Campground with no issue. It was funny after seeing so few people all day, to be in a campground with screaming/laughing children (this is not a negative – just funny in general). A big bonus here is there is pit toilet and a spigot for fresh water – no filtering required! I enjoyed a Farm to Summit* dinner and a mocktail from Trail Toddies (another Oregon-based company!) at a picnic table and went to bed happy. It was a very hard day, but I did it!

Day 2: Cloud Cap to Paradise Park (21.6 miles). Today I started much earlier… I was on trail by 6:45am, ready to knock out what I was told was the most difficult water crossing… Elliott. Well, as luck would have it, some kind soul or souls put in a makeshift log bridge and a rope, so crossing this one was a breeze! I didn’t even get a toe wet… The Coe crossing turned out to be a little tougher, but after Elliott I just wasn’t scared anymore. With that… my tough water crossings were behind me! I climbed up and then strolled down through flower filled meadows, passed a multitude of weekend backpackers at Elk Meadows, and enjoyed all the trickling streams and mountain views. I felt like I was on top of the world! I just kept going – I finally stopped after McNeil Point for lunch with a view, and then made the call to take the Timberline Cut-Off Trail and then remain on the Timberline Trail (avoiding the Bald Mountain alternate). I had heard a lot about downed trees and slides, but I whizzed through that section. It was cool and quiet, lots of fresh salmonberries to eat and even a few huckleberries. As I continued on, I started thinking about where I wanted to end up for the night… I had an idea that I could make it a 20 mile day if I went all the way to Paradise Park. It was so early and I had already gone so many miles… So I cruised all the way to Ramona Falls, then crossed the Sandy River (ended up being the hardest crossing, I waded in up past my knees) and then without barely glancing at the last campsite next to all the fresh water, I turned to head up the 3 miles to the turn-off to Paradise Park. Three miles up is no joke, especially when it’s mile 16-20… Luckily I found a small spot to fill up on water (literally a little dripping stream that went over the trail) and then I didn’t see any water again until I made it to Paradise Park – where I filled up on the first stream I found, not realizing there were two ladies just upstream soaking their feet in that very water!! It was already 5pm on a Saturday night… and I could not find a free space to camp in Paradise Park. I just kept going until I made to the last spot I remembered having seen a tent site at before- I was over 20 miles at this point, and I told myself whatever it was, I would take it. The site was empty! I had a great view – also a dead tree snag hanging over me, but I remembered that tree from 3 years ago and decided he would stick around at least one more night. I prepped my dinner, said a little prayer to the Mountain Goddess that the tree wouldn’t fall on my tent… and hit the hay.

Day 3: Paradise Park to Timberline Lodge (5.5 miles). This would be a super short day, and a hike I have done many times. I climbed down out of Paradise Park, crossed the Zigzag River, and then headed up to Timberline Lodge. I made it back to my car by breakfast, but instead of hitting the Timberline Lodge Buffet… I called my In Laws in Sandy, OR (the gateway to Mount Hood) and got invited to “brunch” at their house. Honestly, it was the best french toast, coffee, and bacon I have ever had! I’m pretty sure they were making that feast for my daughter, who had spent the night… but lucky for me I got to end my Timberline Trail Thru-hike with family and an amazing breakfast!

*I am a Farm to Summit Ambassador, if you would like to try one of their meals – use my code “Chevelle20” for a discount on your order! My favorites include the Doubleshot Latte, Garden Mac & Cheese, and the cold soak Thai Carrot Slaw.

*I am a Backcountry Foodie Affiliate: If you like making your own backpacking meals and snacks, consider a membership with Backcountry Foodie! I have been a member for years – my favorite recipes include the Cuban Black Bean dip (easy cold soak that you pair with plantain chips), sun dried tomato and pesto pasta, and the garbanzo bean salad (another great cold soak meal).

Random thoughts overall:

– it’s gorgeous! Definite PCT and Wonderland vibes but no permit required

– it’s popular, best bet is to avoid weekends if you want solitude

– it’s safe, lots of escape routes along the way no matter what side of the mountain you are on, and you cross paths with other hikers pretty regularly

– yes there is a lot of water, but you still need to track where the water is so you don’t run out on an exposed section 2 miles from the next water (oops) – the Far Out app was VERY helpful for that, if you remember to turn on your gps (another oops, lol)

– lots of water crossings, you will get good at it! It’s not that bad at all, I took my socks off and walked across in my hiking shoes and it was too easy! That said, I experienced shaking legs and dry mouth after almost every crossing

– not a lot of campsites or privacy, I would recommend small groups (no more than 4) to really enjoy the experience

– it was incredible and I plan to make this an annual pilgrimage!

– no bugs, lots of flowers, lots of fresh berries to munch on when I went in late July

– cell service much of the time

– pikas, hummingbirds, chipmunks, oh my!

– salmon berries, huckleberries, thimbleberries, strawberries… yum!

– don’t show up to Paradise Park at 5pm on a Saturday and expect to find a campsite… even if you just walked 20 miles… luckily, I found a nice spot under a dead snag that didn’t fall on me overnight, so all was well!

Amazing experience… it was great to go solo, wouldn’t mind bringing a friend next time and staying an extra night!

I stayed on the Timberline Trail and did not take the Top Spur alternate, I also took the the Timberline Trail “cut off” which saves you some mileage – you will miss the Bald Mountain View which is super cool, but I’ve done that section so many times that the extra steps were not worth it for me personally. I’ve seen quite a few people take issue with all the downed trees if you stick to the Timberline Trail (versus taking the alternate), but I had no problems at all. Yes, I had to walk under a couple trees… maybe climb over one tree… but overall it was no big deal and the whole area was deliciously quiet and marvelous! There have been slides along that section of the trail, but as of now it’s all repaired.

My “Big 4” Gear: I have no official affiliation to this gear, I just really like it

• Sea to Summit Sleeping Pad: This is heavier than some other sleeping pads – but it’s the one that works best for me as a side sleeper!
• Durston XMid-1 Tent: This is a trekking pole tent – and since I saved weight by using this tent I was able to bring the slightly heavier but infinitely more comfortable sleeping pad! It fits me perfectly, but keep in mind I’m 5’4″ so might not be for everyone.
• Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 Backpack: This is my second Gossamer Gear pack… amazingly light, very high quality, and loads of pockets!
• Custom Creepy Cat Quilt:I had this custom made for me! It’s a 30*F quilt with 1oz of overstuff and a custom inside pocket for my phone. It’s final weight came in at 15.1oz, and best of all… it’s has the Kula Cloth “Creepy Cat” design which always makes me happy!

All my other gear… Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.

• Six Moon Design Pack Liner: I use this in my Mariposa to ensure none of my gear will accidentally get wet. Some people use trash compactor bags, but I find this bag is less likely to tear – plus, it’s a small, Oregon-based company!
• Black Diamond Trekking Poles: I’ve had these for 3 years with no issue… but last week a chipmunk chewed up the handle, so I’ll be looking into a local company for a new set of trekking poles (Diorite).
• CNOC Vesica 1L Collapsible Bottle: I put a little squirt bottle top on this and have my own reusable water bottle (instead of using the Smart water bottle that so many hikers use).
• Katadyn BeFree 1.0L Water Filter: I love this water filter – super fast and easy to use, plus no back flushing required! It can screw on to water bottles with the 42 mm screw top.
• CNOC Vecto 42mm Water Carrier: Another Oregon-based company who solved a major problem for many backpackers! This dirty water bag is super light and super easy to fill up and use – it has a large opening at the top to fill with water, and a smaller opening at the bottom to attach your filter of choice. Just make sure you choose the bag with the correct size to match with your filter. Katadyn uses 42mm, and Sawyer Sqeeze used the 28mm.
• Humangear GoBites Spork: I don’t know why, I hate eating with the titanium spoon everyone uses… I found these and they come in fun colors… and sometimes like a spook OR a fork – not both, so this is perfect!
• Jetboil Stash: I love my little stove set up, it’s small and light and everything fits all together! Can’t ask for more in a little backpacking camp kitchen!
• Sea to Summit Collapsible Cup: So… again, I don’t like the titanium cup everyone uses… it’s too hot and then it’s cold. So I use a collapsible cup in my favorite color (teal) and my morning coffee is perfect!
• Sea to Summit Dry Sack: I keep my extra clothes in one of these to make sure everything stays dry. I also have a smaller one that I keep my “essential 10” in.
• Nitecore NB 20000 Power Bank: This thing is awesome! I recharged my phone every night, plus my airpods and my Garmin InReach and it still had batteries left after 6 days!
• Nitecore Rechargeable Headlamp: One of the lightest headlamps on the market… and rechargeable. It works!
• Alpha Sleeping Bag Liner: Made by a local Oregonian (Magnet Designs), this is an awesome addition to your sleep set up! It’s super comfy and light, and adds additional warmth if needed. If not needed, I just use it like a sheet and it helps me sleep so much better!
• Thermarest Compressible Pillow: This is a new addition… and I’m in love! Worth the extra ounces if you can handle it!
• Superior Wilderness Lunchbox: I keep all my food in here and tie it up at night to keep the critters out.

My Worn Clothes:

• Purple Rain Adventure Dress: Another Oregon-based entrepreneur and avid backpacker (are you sensing a theme??) – I love hiking and backpacking in skirts, and this is dress is my absolute favorite. The pockets are amazing, and the fabric is super light and quick drying.
• Dirty Girl Gaiters: These gaiters keep little rocks and things (and maybe ticks?!) out of your shoes. They come in fun colors. That is all.
• Altra Olympus Shoes: These are a little more cushiony than the Lone Peaks – I was able to put a lot of miles in a day without feeling any overuse tendon issues. That said… they are very expensive (I only buy them on sale), and they got tore up pretty fast. I still bought another pair though… no blisters since switching to Altra!
• Farm to Feet Socks: I like Farm to Feet wool socks – wool is key, and these are super comfy and come in fun colors.
• Mazama Sun Hoodie: Made by Magnet, a local Oregon entrepreneur and backpacker, and they comes in super fun colors… what more can you ask for?!
• Kula Pyka Undershorts: These are quick-dry and I use them as my underwear, swimwear, and sleep shorts! They have pockets… and you can wear them as shorts without being embarrassed. Win win win!
• Ridge Merino Wool Bra: I found this to be the most comfortable hiking bra, and it’s dries fairly quickly compared to other wool bras I have tried.

My Packed Clothes

• Extra Pair of Socks: Farm to Feet
• Wool Glove Liners: Ridge Merino
• Fleece: Magnet Hikes and Designs
• Puffy Coat: Mountain Hardware Ghost Whisper
• Sleep Shirt: REI Tank Top
• Extra Pair of Underwear: MeUndies quick-dry
• Sleeping Bra: MeUndies quick-dry bra
• Rain Jacket
• Wool Leggings: WoolX

If I think of anything else, I’ll be sure to update!

“CC The Machine”