Elk Meadows Trail #645

Start at the Hood River Meadows/Elk Meadows Trailhead. Follow the trail signs (northeast) toward Elk Meadow Trail #645. You'll cross two creeks, the second one (Newton Creek) being the biggest. There is a good size log if you go about 100 yards upstream; it was big enough for the dog and hikers to easily cross. After crossing, you'll head up fairly steep switchbacks for about a mile. After you crest the ridge it will mellow out. You can make a full loop around Elk Meadow, but it was pretty boggy so we just went out the same way. There are great views up at the meadow. Several options are available from the same trailhead.