Timpanogas 2154

Total Miles
14.0

Elevation

1,779.23 ft

Duration

1.5 Hours

Technical Rating

7

Difficult

Best Time

Spring, Summer, Fall

Trail Overview

Take part in a 14-mile journey that tracks a ridgeline between the Willamette National Forest and the Umpqua National Forest. Accessing this path is possible through several alternatives. However, keep in mind that the trailhead's conclusion entails rock crawling, making it unsuitable for vehicles with low clearance or tire sizes less than 33 inches. It's advisable to use a 4x4 vehicle. While there is a segment leading to Timpanogas Lake, it's more complex and not recommended to be attempted solo due to the potential for rollovers. This trail crosses into the Umpqua National Forest at specific points. In the lower elevations of the Cascades region, the forests consist of a combination of Douglas fir, grand fir, white fir, and western hemlock. At higher elevations, mixed coniferous forests, including species such as mountain hemlock, noble fir, grand fir, white fir, Engelmann spruce, and lodgepole pine are present. The Umpqua National Forest safeguards 983,239 acres of forest across Douglas, Lane, and Jackson Counties. The forest's remarkable scenery and abundant natural resources have been shaped by High Cascade glaciation, whitewater rapids, and volcanic events. The forest's waterways and diverse habitats provide desirable living conditions for many fish and wildlife species, as well as outstanding recreational opportunities for local communities and visitors. The forest's diverse habitats support larger mammals such as elk, deer, black bear, and cougar, as well as smaller residents like squirrels, foxes, raccoons, and bats. The WNF and the UNF strictly require visitors to pack out their trash and adhere to the "tread lightly" principles regarding foot and vehicle traffic to protect the surrounding habitats. Roads are not accessible during the winter months by vehicles and gates can be closed at any time.

Photos of Timpanogas 2154

Timpanogas 2154
Timpanogas 2154

Difficulty

Driving on this road is strongly discouraged if your vehicle's tire size is less than 33 inches. The extreme rock crawling and off-camber sheer vertical climb at the end of the marked trail make it highly challenging. It is not recommended to attempt this trail solo due to its difficulty level. The trail may be short, but it requires a high level of expertise to complete.

History

It is imperative to note that the Willamette National Forest was established as a forest back in 1933. This was done with Congress allocating more than 380,000 acres of land for the sole purpose of preserving natural scenery, flora, and fauna. It is worth mentioning that the forest is home to several dedicated areas, including the H.J. Andrews Experimental Forest, the Oregon Cascades Recreation Area, and the Lamb Butte Scenic Special Interest Area, as well as four research natural areas.

Technical Rating

7

Status Reports

Steve
Aug 15, 2024
2018 Ford F-Series
Temporarily Closed
Posted Sign
Fire Danger
State Fire Marshal closure order.

Access Description

For those arriving from Oakridge, Oregon, start at the intersection of Crestview Street and Oregon State Highway 58, the only traffic light along Highway 58 in Oakridge. Proceed east on Highway 58 for approximately 1.7 miles, then turn right onto Hills Creek Road/Kitson Springs Road. After 0.5 miles, take a right onto Forest Road 21 and continue for approximately 32 miles, passing Indigo Springs Campground, until you reach the junction with Forest Road 2154. Take a left onto Forest Road 2154 and continue for about 8 miles, past the end of the pavement, until you arrive at the campground. It's crucial to note that if you decide to continue past the campground, the road becomes exceedingly primitive and hazardous.

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