Rainy Whatum Trail #409

This is a nice ridge hike between Rainy Lake and Wahtum Lake along the edge of Mark O Hatfield Wilderness.  There are many vistas in open areas along the way.  Views of Mount Hood to the south dominate. The summit of Tomlike Mountain and Wooly Horn Ridge are close enough to explore.  Loop possibilities exist with other trails in the area. This trail begins at Rainy Lake Campground (4,000') and ends at Anthill Trail #406B (4,400’). The trail follows Waucoma Ridge along an old abandoned road between Rainy Lake and Wahtum Lake.

The trail follows Waucoma Ridge along an old abandoned road between Rainy Lake and Wahtum Lake. Starting at Rainy Lake Campground, the trail heads west on an old road bed and climbs up to Waucoma Ridge. Within a mile the trail reaches Gorton Creek Trail #408 just below the ridge. A little further up will be Herman Cutoff.  The trail along the ridge is sometimes rocky, but affords good views.  After 3 miles the trail reaches the junction with Anthill Trail #406B (4,400’). To get to Wahtum Lake Trailhead, go left (south) on #406B for another 1.5 miles. This trail curves east above Wahtum Lake and provides excellent views of Chinidere Mountain and Wahtum Lake.  To make an 8.3 mile loop from the south end of this trail (hikers and horses only as the loop enters the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness), turn right (west) onto #406B for 0.5 mile to Herman Creek Trail #406.  Turn right (north) onto #406 and travel 2.7 miles to Herman Cutoff #410 (2,880’).  Turn right onto #410 and head uphill towards Waucoma Ridge for 2.2 miles to the intersection with this trail (#409) (4,400’).  Turn left onto this trail and head north 1.1 miles back to Rainy Lake Campground.

Link to Trail Description and Map (PDF File)

At a Glance