Join us for a day of trail maintenance on three miles of the Lower Fifteenmile Trail east of Hood River. The work involves cutting out brush, removing logs, and improving the tread on a segment of trail that has been adopted by the Oregon Timber Trail Alliance.
The Fifteenmile Trail is an important link in our Stiletsi and the White Crane Loop which incorporates sections of the Oregon Timber Trail (https://oregontimbertrail.org/stiletsi-and-the-white-crane-hood-tier-gorge-loop) . The loop is 140 miles long and, while most of the other trails in the loop are maintained by 44 Trails trail stewardship group, this three miles is ours to take care of.
We’ll meet at the east end of the trail (Lower Fifteenmile trailhead) at 8:30 and be on trail at 9:00. The drive is about three hours from Portland or three hours from Bend. We plan to finish the day by 4:00.
If you wish, bring your bike for an evening ride of the trail we just cleared. As an alternative, come the day before or stay an additional day and ride the epic Fifteenmile circuit. However, this year the snowpack at upper elevations of the circuit may not melt out prior to May 20. Informal camping is available nearby.
We’ll supply tools and hard hats. Or bring your own if you prefer. The required attire is boots, long pants, long sleeves, gloves, and eye protection. The weather in late May can be variable so plan accordingly. Bring sunscreen, food and water.
Never done trail work before? Don’t worry – we’ll teach you everything you need to know. And don’t be concerned about your fitness level – feel free to work at your own pace. We’ll be hiking about six miles during the day. Those younger than 18 need to be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Please sign up here if you’re planning to join us for this work party. We’ll respond to confirm your reservation.
Directions to the Fifteenmile trail work site starting from The Dalles
The following is the only way to get to the work site this time of year. Don’t let your phone app trick you into taking other routes. The distance is 34 miles once you leave I-84. The travel time is about an hour. The last 3.4 miles is too lumpy for cars with lower clearance - plan to park at the #4421 road turnoff and catch a ride with someone else if needed.
Driving Directions
Head east on I-84 E. Take exit 87 for US-197 toward Dufur/Bend.
Go 0.2 miles.
Turn right onto US-197 S/US-30 W.
Go 0.2 miles.
Turn left onto US-197 S.
Go 15.2 miles.
Turn right onto Dufur Gap Rd.
Go 4.5 miles.
Turn right onto Friend Rd.
Go 1.7 miles.
Turn right onto Hix Rd.
Go 0.2 miles.
Turn left onto Friend Rd/Kingsley-Friend Market Rd.
Go 8.6 miles.
Turn right onto Forest Service road #4421 (the road sign is missing).
Go 3.4 miles.
For the last 3.4 miles you’ll be on a rough logging road with several junctions. Continue straight at each junction. The correct route is the road that appears to have the most use. Look for pink flagging marking the correct route. Cross the stream at the bottom of the steep hill and you’ll find parking on the right.
