Dimple Hill

The path to the top of Dimple Hill from Chip Ross Park is a favorite for hikers, joggers, mountain bikers and horseback riders in Corvallis. The reward for making it to the top is a view of the valley below, with Marys Peak dominating the skyline. Along the way, you'll pass through a shady forest replete with familiar native plants such as Oregon grape, sword fern, and several varieties of moss. Small waterfalls and the occasional meadow spice up the forest scenery. Begin the hike at Chip Ross Park. Start walking clockwise on the short loop in the park, then go down a short hill to a signboard marking the entrance to McDonald Forest. Here you can pick up a visitor guide and trail map. The McDonald Forest is used by forestry students at Oregon State University for research, preservation, and learning. Follow Dan's Trail as it crosses several forest roads and meanders up and down before making the climb up Dimple Hill. At the top, a rounded meadow provides ample rest spots to sit and have a picnic lunch, read a book, or stretch your legs before heading back down. To finish the loop through Chip Ross, be sure to turn left as you re-enter the park and go uphill to find the huge meadows with well-placed benches. The trip described here is only one of many ways you can go hiking on Dimple Hill and in the surrounding McDonald College Forest. With a map or GPS and some time to explore, you can link together a number of trails and forest roads to create your own adventure.