It’s a tough year to find good conditioning hikes in NW Oregon. We just did the Elk Mt./King Mt. Traverse off of Highway 6 about 25 miles east of Tillamook, and found the whole middle part of the hike to be snow covered and treacherous, though passable. Anyone know of any off-the-beaten-path lower elevation conditioning hikes near Portland? If not, I’d appreciate any beta from the traditional conditioners in the area…
Snow level as of today seems to be about 2800’ both in the Columbia Gorge and the Coast Range.

Thanks,
Gruffgoat

This may sound stupid Hank but why not do as I do: I simply load my pack heavier. When I can’t get away from the ranch I usually strap on a 25lb weight vest and a large fanny pack I made for myself and go hike thru my ranch *southern oregon) and up the very steep Williams Pipeline easement. Good workout and always fun! Even the easy Eagle Creek trail is tough if one’s carrying enough weight. Or how about Forest Park w/a 70lb pack? Of course hiking faster also makes it tough.

HTH.

Peace,

Rallen.