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Ruckel Creek Trail (#405)
THIS TRAIL IS CLOSED DUE TO THE EFFECTS OF THE EAGLE CREEK FIRE. Restoration efforts are ongoing; we hope to have the trai lopen by October 2024.
Steep and demanding, this 5.8 mile trail rewards with scenic views, wildflower displays, lichen covered rocks and Indian pits as it climbs up one of the southern faces of the Columbia Gorge. The trail forks after the forested Benson Plateau. The trail on the right side (past a “Trail Not Maintained” sign) provides a lunch spot and turnaround point next to Ruckel Creek.
This trail enters Mark O Hatfield Wilderness and ends at its junction with Pacific Crest Trail #2000 on the east edge of the Benson Plateau heading into Mt Hood National Forest.
Alert! Ruckel Ridge is NOT a system trail so it is not maintained or marked. Eagle-Benson Trail #434 is not maintained so it is very difficult to follow and not a recommended connection between Ruckel and Eagle Creek #440.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Closed due to unstable landscape from a 2017 wildfire. Trail cannot be located. Violators can be cited and fined. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Light |
| Restrictions: |
|
| Closest Towns: | Cascade Locks, OR |
| Passes: | A valid Recreation Pass is required at Eagle Creek trailhead. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area |
General Information
Directions:From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to Eagle Creek exit # 41. Turn right, drive past the fish hatchery and park in the day use area.
Hike 0.1 mile (0.2 km) up the road toward Eagle Creek Campground. Take Gorge Trail #400 for 0.5 mile (0.8 km) to the junction of Trail #405, which starts alongside an abandoned Historic Columbia River Highway bridge on the east side of Ruckel Creek.
Activities
Day Hiking
This more challenging hike winds through a variety of habitats and spectacular views.
Backpacking
Viewing Plants
From April through May, the climb to Benson Plateau passes moss-covered rock slides dotted with wildflowers. Trail also passes through old-growth forest.
Viewing Scenery
The trail provides fantastic cliff-top views of the Bridge of the Gods, Table Mountain, and Mount Adams.
Alerts & Warnings
- Microwave Tower Fire Closure
- Whisky Creek Fire in Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness
- No potable water available at Wyeth Campground
- Klickitat Mile One Overnight Use & Large Boat Launch Prohibition
- Concept Development for Mosier to The Dalles Trail Underway
- Effective Jan 1, 2024-October 20, 2024: Eagle Creek Fire Closure
- Drones prohibited in wilderness and select recreation sites
- Guard against car theft
- Check road and weather conditions
Related Information
Highlights
Location