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Badger Creek Trail #479
This trail is one of the most popular trails in Badger Creek Wilderness. It is usually best to hike during the period of June-September. This trail makes an excellent backpack route as an out and back route to Badger Lake; also you come across many different forest types. From oak thickets to sub alpine fir meadows at Badger Lake. Visitors can try to catch small rainbow trout in Badger Creek, as it runs along the entire length of the trail. Large natural rock formations are along the lower section of this trail. Please watch for rattlesnakes.
Trail is maintained yearly. The Badger Creek trail travels from oak and pine woods at Bonney Crossing to Badger Creek Trailhead on a high saddle above Badger Lake. The route stays relatively close to Badger Creek, crossing numerous streams along the way.
Sections of this trail are maintained by the Back Country Horsemen of Oregon Columbia Gorge Chapter volunteers. The Northwest Youth Corps also help with maintenance on this trail.
Link to Trail Description and Map (PDF File)
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | First four miles of trail has been cleared in 2024 |
|---|---|
| Open Season: | May |
| Restrictions: | Wilderness Restrictions apply. No motorbikes or mountain bikes. |
| Closest Towns: | Wamic, OR |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | No. (Bathrooms available at Bonney Crossing and Badger Lake.) |
| Passes: | A valid Recreation Pass is required at Badger Creek Trailhead. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Barlow Ranger District - Dufur Ranger Station |
General Information
Directions:From Sandy, OR take Highway 26 east about 31 miles to Highway 35 north to the junction of Forest Road 48 (just north of Rock Creek Reservoir).
Turn left on Forest Road 4810 continue for 2 miles. At the junction with Forest Road 4811 turn right for approx. 2 miles, turning right on Forest Road 2710 heading to Bonney Crossing Campground.
Trailhead is on the left after crossing Badger Creek.
Activities
Dispersed Camping
Recreation areas with activity Dispersed Camping:River and Stream Fishing
Recreation areas with activity River and Stream Fishing: Angling in Badger Creek.| Fish Species | Rainbow Trout |
| Fishing Method | Angling |
Day Hiking
Recreation areas with activity Day Hiking: The route stays relatively close to Badger Creek, crossing numerous streams along the way. The Badger Creek Trail takes the hiker through many different forest types. The entire length follows Badger Creek. Hikers may also enjoy large natural rock formations along the lower section of this trail. The best hiking is June thru September.Backpacking
Recreation areas with activity Backpacking:Horse Riding
Recreation areas with activity Horse Riding: See day hiking description.Viewing Plants
Recreation areas with activity Viewing Plants: Variety of forest types along trail, from oak thickets to sub-alpine fir meadows at Badger Lake.Picnicking
Recreation areas with activity Picnicking:Alerts & Warnings
- Sandstone Fire closure on Clackamas River RD
- Whisky Creek Fire closure; includes PCT detour
- Avalanches on Mt. Hood
- Multiple ski trail bridge closures on Hood River Ranger District
- Sno-Park Permits required Nov. 1 thru Apr. 30
- Timberline Lodge tours canceled for October
- Dog River Trail temporary closure
- Bridge closures on the Barlow Road