Hike near Dry Creek and Paradise Trail #124

7.5 miles of hiking • 1750' elevation gain •

The Paradise Trail is not well known or traveled, from what we can tell. Typically, this time of year, Dry Creek Rd. is gated and this becomes a road hike. Fortunately, the gate was open, and we believe this was because there is a firewood cutting area on NF-201, and also there was no snow or frost. My wife didn't feel too comfortable driving up NF-201 (although we've done it before and it's not a bad road) so we parked at the intersection with Dry Creek Road. First we walked to the Big Hollow TH that crosses Dry Creek and heads into the Trapper Creek Wilderness. I have to say that the log over Dry Creek is gnarly and slippery, so we didn't cross. Late in the summer this creek can be easily walked through. The Big Hollow trail to Observation Peak is a gem, in my opinion! At the start of our hike we were able to see that Observation Peak had snow, but I suspect it isn't very deep yet?

We next walked up NF-201 to the Paradise Trail, which is about 1.6 miles from the road intersection. The trail had a sign at one time but it appeared to be removed (not shot up). My impression is that this trail is being abandoned, but it is still easily followed despite all the debris. This trail basically climbs very very steeply for about 0.6 miles and I call this direct assault a chute. You don't need your hands, but it's an excellent workout, and our clothes were wet when we hit the ridge. About 1.5 miles from the TH is a superior view of the Dry Creek Valley and Trapper Creek Wilderness, but today there was no visibility. :( I'll attach a picture of what it looks like when clear just so you can get an idea of the amazing beauty! If you look on a map, the paradise trail goes for many miles. We have hiked much further in the summer months, but never came close to what the map is the end. If you're looking for solitude, an initial workout (the trail is level and follows abandoned forest roads further out) and at least one spectacular view then this is the trail for you! Oh, by the way, the rock outcropping area may be of interest for scramblers! Since we got out late, we had to cut the hike short due to time. :(