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Area Status: Temporarily Closed
This trail leads through lodgepole pine for the first mile. Timberline is at approximately 7200 feet elevation. The mountain hemlock-true fir type is predominant. Inviting glimpses of Mt. Thielsen are evident along the trail. A breath taking view of Mt. Thielsen presents itself just beyond the Spruce Ridge Trail junction 1.6 miles.
The trail enters Mt. Thielsen Wilderness before you reach the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail at 2.9 miles. Here the glacial features of this volcanic peak loom before you. From the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a scramble trail works its way to the spire pointed peak at 9,182 feet elevation. The trail is a steep climb, particularly above timberline beyond which there are no markers. The last 200 feet is a difficult hand-over-hand climb. Elevation gain is 3,782 feet.
Hiking boots and caution are highly recommended for climbing on the loose rocky slopes. Those brave and energetic enough to make it to the top, should add their names to the climbing register found there. The view of the east and west sides of the Cascades, from the Sisters to Mt. Shasta, is incredible.
The mountaineer’s route to the top of Mount Thielsen is rated a class IV to 5.1 scramble and is not considered a technical climb. Yet exposure on Mount Thielsen is extreme and there have been more fatalities on this route than have occurred on all the technical routes on the Umpqua National Forest combined.
Gear: A light rack and light rope should be considered for the scramble of the last 80 feet from Chicken Ledge to the summit when there are inexperienced climbers in your party.
Restrictions: Wilderness restrictions apply.
WARNING: Mount Thielsen has a reputation for attracting lightning strikes. Watch for cumulus cloud build up.
At a Glance
General Information
Directions:
From Roseburg, OR, take OR-138 east / northeast Diamond Lake Boulevard. Follow Highway 138 east for about 81.5 miles (1.5 miles north of the Highway 230 / Highway 138 road junction near Diamond Lake).
The Mt. Thielsen Trailhead / Sno-Park parking lot is located along the east side of Highway 138.
Umpqua National Forest Recreation Map reference number is L-6. Located at Township 28 south, Range 5 1/2 east, Section 16.
General Notes:
Mt Thielsen climbing pictures and information posted by Paul J. McClellan, (not maintained by USDA Forest Service).
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