Slide Basin Trail

The Slide Basin Trail is considered difficult for casual hiking due to its varied terrain and significant elevation changes. While komoot rates it as 'moderate' based on overall stats, hikers should be prepared for a strenuous experience, especially given sections with washouts. Expect rapidly changing weather conditions and plan to carry ample supplies as it is a backcountry trail.

The trail offers diverse scenery, starting through forested areas and opening up to provide scenic views of Strawberry Mountain, the John Day Valley, and Slide Creek Basin. You can also spot Slide Falls and interesting rock formations. The route provides access to Slide Lake and Strawberry Lake.

The best time to hike the Slide Basin Trail is typically during the summer and early fall months when the weather is most stable. However, be aware that the trail can sometimes be very dry, so checking for fire restrictions is advisable. Rapidly changing weather conditions are possible at any time, so always be prepared.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the Slide Basin Trail. However, as it is located within the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, it's crucial to practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes keeping your dog under control, packing out all waste, and respecting wildlife.

As of current information, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to hike the Slide Basin Trail or enter the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. However, always check the latest regulations with the U.S. Forest Service before your trip, especially for fire restrictions or any new wilderness area rules.

Specific parking information for the Slide Basin Trailhead is not detailed in the provided sources. However, as a backcountry trail within the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, access typically involves designated wilderness trailheads. It is recommended to consult official U.S. Forest Service maps or websites for precise trailhead locations and parking availability.

Yes, the Slide Basin Trail is part of a larger network within the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness. The route itself covers sections of the official Slide Basin Trail #372, Strawberry Basin Trail #375, and Skyline Trail #385. It also briefly touches the Slide Lake Trail #5007.

Yes, sections of the trail, particularly after the Tie-in Trail junction to the Skyline Trail, have experienced washouts, making them difficult to traverse. It is recommended to avoid these washed-out sections between the Tie-in Trail #5006 and the Skyline Trail #385. The Tie-in Trail is suggested as an alternative route to bypass these challenging areas.

Given its backcountry nature and potential for rapidly changing weather, you should pack ample supplies. This includes sufficient water (as the trail can be dry), appropriate layers of clothing for varied temperatures, navigation tools, first-aid supplies, and food. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and pack out everything you pack in.

No, the Slide Basin Trail is located within the Strawberry Mountain Wilderness, where motorized vehicles and mountain bikes are prohibited. This preserves the natural hiking environment and wilderness experience.

The estimated completion time for the Slide Basin Trail can vary significantly based on pace. For casual hiking, it might take around 7 hours. A faster pace could reduce this to approximately 4.5 hours. Komoot's average duration for this route is about 4 hours and 15 minutes.