Highlights
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 6 to 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 800 feet
Season: June and July best for Wildflowers
Notes: No permit is required. No restrooms at the trailhead.
About this Hike
A series of mountain meadows lie at the heart of the nearly 10,000 acre Gordon Meadows roadless area in the old Cascades. Here, small streams begin and flow into the South Santiam River – proposed as a Wild & Scenic River under the River Democracy At – sheltered by ancient forests of giant Douglas-fir trees, noble firs, hemlocks, and Englemann spruce. Note the huge decaying snags in the forest – remnants from the last fire to burn in the area roughly 200 years ago.
The trail first leads past the twin Gordon Lakes through a spectacular old-growth forest. Continuing on, you gradually gain elevation as you hike through the ancient forest’s shade. You’ll catch glimpses of meadows alive with wildflowers June-August, cross trickling streams with lush vegetation, and note Sourgrass Mountain rising to the south. Stop wherever it strikes your fancy, and head back the way you came.
For a longer hike, you can keep going on this trail, passing through more meadows and eventually reaching the Gordon Meadows Admin Trailhead, passing the headwaters of Falls Creek along the way.
Getting There
From the town of Sweet Home, travel 27 miles east on Hwy 20. Turn right on Forest Road 2044/Latiwi Creek Road. Follow past the entrance to House Rock Campground (though this is a good spot for a bathroom break if needed) and another 5.25 miles. Turn right on Road 230 and follow 2.7 miles to the road’s end and the Gordon Lakes trailhead.
Take Action
Maintaining protections for this area under the Roadless Rule is vital for safeguarding its biodiversity. Take action here to defend the Roadless Rule. Another opportunity to protect this area is through the River Democracy Act, which would designate tributaries to the South Santiam River that originate here under the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act. Support the River Democracy Act here.
