"pick of the litter" information, resources & connections
leash-free hikes?
anyone know of good off-leash hikes not too far away from portland, preferably up the gorge? looking to go this weekend.
Replies to This Discussion
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Permalink Reply by Laura (Stella & Sam's Mom) on -
I am very interested in places other folks know of that is either mandated off-leash or "accepted". Of course there is a difference and sometimes a risk of a ticket. Here is where I take my dogs:
1. The Sandy River Delta. The parking lot is currently under construction; I would not go there until late August. Take the 84 east just past Troutdale and take that first exit which is Lewis & Clark. Take a right at the T intersection and you'll see where to go.
2. The Wildwood trail off Saltzman Road in Forest Park. This is tricky because folks that live in the area rely heavily on this trail. Someone will complain to the city that there are dogs off-leash and the city will hand out $200 tickets.
3. Latourell Falls in the Columbia Gorge. This is a short, pretty steep loop. We hike one way, then turn around and hike back. A lot of folks take their dogs here, but I have had conflicts. The path is not very wide and if you run into problem dogs, even on leash, it's a problem. Take the 84 east and take the Bridal Veil exit. Turn right onto the old highway and drive for about 3 miles. The parking lot will be on your LHS.
4. The Old Salmon River in Zig Zag. Take the 26 east and slow down when you see the fire station on your RHS. Take a right at the Subway sandwich shop and follow that road for about 2 miles. The small parking area will be on your right. Make sure to bring your leashes because the trail dumps you back on the road briefly after about a mile. You have to cross a creek which is un-passable late spring / early summer.
5. Frog Lake in the Mt. Hood area. Take the 26 east and when the road splits into the 26 and the 35, stay on the 26. It is about 4.5 miles past that juncture. The entrance to the large parking lot is on your LSH.
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Permalink Reply by Andrea Schneider on
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This is really good information, thanks.
I take Ellie up to Forest Park a lot. I also love the Sandy River Delta, although in the middle of summer have to bring water for Ellie as it gets so hot. She loves to swim in the river.
We love the beach in Gearhart, she can run forever and loves to play Frisbee in the ocean.
The Dog Lovers Guide to the Pacific Northwest (currently being updated) is a wealth of off the beaten track information. Val Mallinson is a member and part of the travel group, she has good suggestions.
I have to think about this some more. Thanks for such good directions and insights. I hope we get a lot of people to give us tips. We love going to new places.
© 2008 Created by Andrea Schneider
