Larch Mountain

[bobcycle]

Larch Mt. on Saturday. Gate closed at 10.5 miles so no cars but road was completely clear of snow until mile 14.0 where they stopped plowing. I walked the 1/3 of mile to parking lot. Snow is probably 4 feet deep up there. Another 1/4 mile hike in snow to Shepards Point view spot. The view was spectacular!!! Now is the time to go, since cars can't get by gate. Return trip is a 3.5 mile descent at 30 mph without pedaling. 70 miles round trip from NE PDX, look at google map and take Hurlburt, Little Page then Louden to Larch Mt. road. Be forewarned parts of Louden are 16% grade.

[jeff]

what BobCycle said still holds, as of yesterday - 5/13. Be prepared to wade through snow to get to the view. The 3+ miles after the gate are a relentless climb. About 3700 feet of elevation gain over 17 miles from Springdale to the top - ugh. But a beautiful ride through the forest, with very low traffic.

[brock]

What a year -- two months ago I rode all the way to the top, no snow in sight. And now it's snowed in!

[djstabe]

How's the road as of June 1, 2010? Any snow?

[RedRiderPDX]

From the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area website:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/columbia/

"The road to Larch Mountain is now open at milepost 10 and Larch Mountain trailhead and picnic area is two wheel drive accessible."

[jeff]

[QUOTE=RedRiderPDX;24016]From the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area website:

http://www.fs.fed.us/r6/columbia/

"The road to Larch Mountain is now open at milepost 10 and Larch Mountain trailhead and picnic area is two wheel drive accessible."[/QUOTE]

I thought it really said that...

[bobcycle]

Just read this on USDA forestry web site

"The upper section of Larch Mountain Road beyond milepost 10 in rural East County remains closed due to heavy snowfalls this winter and spring. The section will likely remain closed until late June, said Mike Pullen, a Multnomah County spokesman. For up to date information please contact Mike Pullen at 503-988-6804"

Anyone been up there to check it out?

[RedRiderPDX]

Heading up this weekend. Will go as far as snow permits.

[RedRiderPDX]

Wide open all the way to the top. Nearly eaten alive by bugs at the top. Road generally in good condition, swept free of junk above the gate. Minor fresh spalling of the road at a logging site entrance around MP 6 (just above).

Get out there and ride it.

[bobcycle]

Just FYI There is a time trial event from Corbett High School to the top of the Larch mountain Sunday July 24th. http://www.consystency.net/obra/ouch/