Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail
Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail
2.6
(19)
44
hikers
Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail
01:45
6.35km
60m
Hiking
The Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail offers a delightful and varied hiking experience within the Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. You'll traverse through dense forests, past beautiful Oregon white oak woodlands, and areas dotted with Pacific madrone trees, which are particularly striking. The route also opens up to meadows that burst with wildflowers in the spring, providing scenic views of the Tualatin Valley and the distant Coast Range from spots like the Coastal Foothills Viewpoint. It's a journey through diverse habitats, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
This easy 3.9-mile (6.4 km) hiking route has a gentle 188 feet (57 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. The trails are multi-use, welcoming hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders, but be aware that dogs are generally not permitted to protect the park's wildlife. Parking is available at the trailhead; consider an early start on busy days to ensure a spot. Spring is an ideal time to visit, especially if you want to catch the wildflowers in bloom.
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, where these trails are located, is a notable 1,260-acre restoration project that opened in December 2021. It's a significant natural haven preserving diverse ecosystems, including oak woodlands and shrubby habitats that support a wide array of wildlife, from birds to black-tailed deer. The park also holds cultural significance, situated on land historically known as "Chehalem" by the Atfalati people, adding a layer of depth to your outdoor adventure.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Get Directions
30 m
Chehalem Ridge Nature Park
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
1.94 km
Viewpoint
Viewpoint
3.91 km
Coastal Foothills Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
6.35 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.73 km
1.63 km
Surfaces
3.04 km
1.91 km
1.38 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
Highest point (300 m)
Lowest point (140 m)
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 15 July
31°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 18.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park for the Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail?
The Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail is located within Chehalem Ridge Nature Park in Gaston, Oregon. Parking is available at the park's designated trailhead parking areas. The park is open from sunrise to sunset.
Is the Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail dog-friendly?
No, dogs are generally not allowed on the trails in Chehalem Ridge Nature Park. This policy is in place to protect local wildlife and ensure a natural experience for all visitors.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring is particularly beautiful, especially on the Madrona Trail section, where you can see wildflowers in the meadow. During wetter seasons, some sections, particularly on the Chehalem Ridge Trail, might be muddy.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for Chehalem Ridge Nature Park?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access Chehalem Ridge Nature Park or hike this trail. The park is free and open to the public.
What is the difficulty level of this route?
This route is rated as easy overall. However, it combines sections of varying difficulty. Timber Road can be steep and loose in parts, while the Chehalem Ridge Trail is generally considered beginner-friendly. The Madrona Trail is rated 'Blue' (moderate) due to its steeper descent and switchbacks, offering a more dynamic experience.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the route?
You'll encounter a mix of terrains. Timber Road is a doubletrack forest road with gravel sections that can be steep and loose. The Chehalem Ridge Trail is winding through the forest, potentially with some mud. The Madrona Trail is a singletrack with playful descents, switchbacks, and transitions from dense forest to open areas and a meadow loop.
What can I see along the Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge, and Madrona Trail?
Along the route, you'll experience dense forests, restored native plants including Oregon white oak stands, and potentially wildflowers in spring. Key highlights include the Chehalem Ridge Nature Park itself, and the Coastal Foothills Viewpoint, offering views of the Coast Range and the Tualatin River Valley.
Is this trail suitable for families with children?
Yes, Chehalem Ridge Nature Park aims to provide a great outdoor experience for families. While the Madrona Trail section is rated moderate, the overall route includes easier sections suitable for beginners and families looking for a varied hike.
Does this route connect with other trails in Chehalem Ridge Nature Park?
Yes, the route incorporates sections of several trails within the park. It primarily follows Timber Road, Chehalem Ridge Trail, and Madrona Trail. Timber Road, in particular, serves as a central access route connecting to other paths like Ammefu Trail, Woodland Trail, and Witches Butter Trail.
What is a unique feature or challenge of the Madrona Trail section?
The Madrona Trail is the only 'Blue' rated single-track trail in Chehalem Ridge Nature Park, making it a more exciting option. It features playful descents with switchbacks and a beautiful loop around a meadow, which is particularly vibrant with wildflowers in the spring. It offers a more dynamic hiking experience compared to the park's 'green' trails.
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