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Jul 23 2018
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 Guides 34
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38 male
 Joined Aug 16 2006
 Portland, OR
Elk Lake Trail #559North Central, OR
North Central, OR
Hiking avatar Jul 23 2018
keepmovingTriplogs 592
Hiking10.18 Miles 1,220 AEG
Hiking10.18 Miles
1,220 ft AEG
 
1st trip
Linked   none no linked trail guides
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I heard from a friend about the nice swimming opportunities and solitude that this trail afforded and decided to give it a shot on another of our 90 degree Portland days.

Arrived at the trailhead to find 1 other car already parked there, although I did not see anyone the entire time I was on the trail. The first couple of miles are a bit bland as the trail wanders along a ridge high above the creek and is quite exposed to the afternoon sun. In between occasional breezes I could feel waves of heat travel up from the canyon that were rather unpleasant.

Once I reached the first creek crossing things got much better. The first crossing was about a foot or so deep and felt great after baking in the sun for the last hour. The trail then wandered along the creek and through berry bushes before it quickly arrived at the fabled swimming hole. I spent some time fishing and decided to press on to the Battle Creek Shelter, I figured I would save the swimming for the hike back.

The rest of the way to Battle Creek shelter is not super exciting- 2 more calf deep creek crossings as the trail meanders deeper into the Bull of The Woods wilderness area. The site of the former shelter is not worth the effort- just a wide clearing in the forest that feels like a big let down. If I had to do it over I would definitely stop at the swimming hole, nothing past there is worth the effort.
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WARNING! Hiking and outdoor related sports can be dangerous. Be responsible and prepare for the trip. Study the area you are entering and plan accordingly. Dress for the current and unexpected weather changes. Take plenty of water. Never go alone. Make an itinerary with your plan(s), route(s), destination(s) and expected return time. Give your itinerary to trusted family and/or friends.

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