What a fantastic hike! The drive up was super easy and the trail had lots of markers. There were definitely some rocky/rugged parts on the lower falls trail, but nothing too crazy. Would recommend to anyone in the pdx/vancouver area!

December 7 2024:

Hiked loop counter-clockwise without too much trouble, but the bridge is out by the waterfall about 5 miles in (~2 miles clockwise from trailhead). Wasn't too difficult today to go up behind the waterfall to get through that section. 

Report covers upper trail only. I ran from the parking area to the road crossing. About 2.1 miles one way.

Upper trail is in good condition with a few brushy spots but often is buried by a carpet of fallen leaves which can hide tripping hazards underneath like rocks and roots and would make for slippery conditions if things got pretty wet. If you take the horse bypass option instead of continuing on from the first overlook that stretch is very overgrown!
Also if it rained a lot it seems like this trail would get fairly muddy as well as slippery.
I only saw 1 person when I began around 7:45am on Saturday, 11/9/24. However by the end of my trail run (8:45) there was a steady stream of pedestrians including 2 trail runners and 3 people with leashed dogs. I counted 13 people and just as I was exiting a large group of maybe 8-10 people with 2-3 dogs rolled up. So if you’re seeking solitude go early or avoid a non-rainy Saturday morning!

Final note: the outhouse is completely out of toilet paper. It’s not too gross.

I went clockwise on this trail, starting on the lower section.

For as rough and rugged as the ~2 miles of uphill trail was I was shocked at how many folks were doing the loop without poles, or water or anything really. There were several sections through the rough part that even with equipment my footing had to be carefully considered. After that section with the steep climbs and talus slopes, the trail evened out to a well maintained, relatively smooth and easy going path for the remainder of the loop. Incredible views once at the top with blue skies.

I reached the top of the ridge in late afternoon and had the views virtually to myself as most of the crowds had already been on their way out. Definitely worth it!

Did the loop. Trail is quite “brushy” in some areas.  Consider long pants if your legs are sensitive.