This tree was cleared decades ago on remote Katsuk Point, possibly for a lookout site in the early 1900s (Tom Kloster)

A maze of beargrass meadows spread across the gentle crest of Katsuk Point (Tom Kloster)

Indian ceremonial pit near the cliffs of Katsuk Point (Tom Kloster)

• Connecting hikes: Perry Lake from Vista Ridge Hike, Owl Point from Vista Ridge Hike
• End point: Katsuk Point
• Trail Log: Trail Log
• Distance: 1.2 miles
• Elevation gain: 130 feet
• High point: 4,885 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Seasons: Summer and early fall
• Family Friendly: No
• Backpackable: No
• Crowded: No

Description

Katsuk Point is a promontory above the deep Clear Branch valley on the south side of Vista Ridge. It falls within the boundaries of the 2009 extension of the Mt. Hood Wilderness. This area is not currently reached by a trail and the hike should only be attempted by experienced bushwackers.

This add-on hike starts on the Rockpile Trail, at an obvious bend between the Old Vista Ridge Trail and The Rockpile. Head pretty much straight ahead when the Rockpile Trail curves to the right.

There's no developed path here, but the first part of the route is a fairly easy stroll through meadows filled with huckleberry bushes. Closer to the point, there are thickets of brushy trees to work through. After a half mile or so, you'll come to the open rocky area known as Katsuk Point. There's a splendid and open view of Mount Hood from the point.

This area contains several notable historic relics, as well as countless natural views. Please tred lightly.

Maps

(Katsuk Point is not marked on the maps, but the Old Vista Ridge Trail is.)

• Maps: Hike Finder
• Green Trails Maps: Mt Hood, OR #462
• Geo-Graphics: Mount Hood Wilderness Map
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: Mt. Hood National Forest
• U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service: Hood River Ranger District
• National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map: Mount Hood Wilderness
• National Geographic Trails Illustrated Map: Mount Hood

Regulations or restrictions, etc

• Wilderness rules apply.

Trip Reports

• Search Trip Reports for Katsuk Point

• Laurance Lake-Owl Point-Clear Branch Road Loop 8-19-17
• Exploring the Old Vista Ridge Trail - 10/07/12
• Rockpile, Katsuk Point, Owl Point, Alki Point 9-7-08

Related Discussions / Q&A

• Search Trail Q&A for Katsuk Point

More Links

Page Contributors

• stevefromdodge (creator)