Newton Creek Crossing on Elk Meadows Trail
From Portland Hikers Field Guide
- Hikes including this location
- Elk Meadows Hike (TH | <-- --> | LOG)
- Gnarl Ridge from Hood River Meadows Hike (TH | <-- --> | LOG)
- Hood River Meadows Loop Hike (TH | <-- --> | LOG)
- Latitude: 45.33531
- Longitude: -121.62629
- Maps: Portland Hikers Maps Google Earth
- Elevation: 4880 feet
Contents |
Description
There is no bridge across Newton Creek on the Elk Meadows Trail (or the Timberline Trail for that matter). This is one of about 6 creeks around Mount Hood that can be very difficult to cross.
The crossing may be impassable during and after heavy rain or in the spring when there is heavy snow-melt. People die here occasionally so be careful.
Another potential danger is crossing the stream in the morning, and then when you return in the afternoon the stream flow is much heavier due to snow melt which can make the crossing dangerous.
Normally, you can find a place where other people have used rocks or logs to cross. Sometimes you have to wade across, but the force exerted by flowing water can knock you over, even when the stream looks small. Unhook your backpack waist belt before you start, in case you lose your footing so your pack doesn't drag you under water. If you get your boots wet, take them off and wring out your socks so it doesn't squish when you walk.
In 2000 there was a large flood down Newton Creek that destroyed Robinhood Campground on highway 35. This will undoubtedly happen again. This normally happens in the winter and spring during heavy rain periods when there aren't people here so you don't need to worry too much.
There's a nearby trail junction, where the Newton Creek Trail meets the Elk Meadows Trail.
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