Crescent Mountain Trail #3384

Crescent Mountain Trail #3384 is an out-and-back hike in Willamette National Forest with a measured round-trip length around 8.6 miles and elevation gain around 1,866 feet. Expect a difficult effort with a sustained climb once you leave the creek drainage and start working up toward the summit area.

Start at Crescent Mountain South Trailhead and hike the first mile as the trail drops a bit toward Maude Creek under a shady old-growth canopy. The Maude Creek area sets the tone early: cool footing through the forest and a steady transition into climbing.

At about 1.3 miles, cross Maude Creek on a wooden footbridge—this is the last water you’ll encounter before the higher ground. After the crossing, the route switchbacks through dense forest as it gains elevation.

By about mile 3, the trail exits the trees into open hillsides that carry the classic subalpine wildflower-meadow mix (including beargrass and paintbrush, with other blooms common in season). Plan for long stretches above the forest line where the climb continues and exposure increases.

Around 3.7 miles, re-enter the forest briefly for the final push to the summit. Near the top, old lookout remnants remain, and the summit offers expansive views across the Cascade Mountains.

The return is straight back the way you came; the same Maude Creek footbridge marks your last easy water point on the way down. The trail is typically best in late June through July when wildflowers are at peak.

More information: Visitor information, Crescent Mountain Hike - Oregon Hikers, Echo Basin Trail #3410 in Oregon | Walking Map - Pacer