Paradise Park

21 miles of hiking • 4500' elevation gain •

Hoped to escape the city heat, and mostly succeeded! Took an entirely new (to us) route up to Paradise Park from the Kiwanis Camp area below Government Camp, going up the Paradise Park trail and coming back down the Hidden Lake trail. Both routes were blissfully shaded by the forest, leaving only portions on and above the Timberline Trail with much sun exposure. Temps in Paradise were low-80s, while shadier spots along the Timberline were low-70s, as opposed to mid-90s in town. Sweet!

We were both amazed at how gradually graded the Paradise Park trail was, as we quickly gained over 2500' on the way up, barely noticing the incline. The final stretch was only slightly steeper. Unfortunately, the flowers had peaked (at least) two weeks ago, and the meadows were starting to brown. Ah well, views in all directions were still stupendous.

Seems this was the day for PortlandHikers folks in Paradise! We ran into one family we knew, they told us of another that they'd seen, and then the next morning learned of still more. Should've sent out smoke signals, or something. :-)

Had first lunch near Lost Creek, which held some of the very last monkeyflowers still in bloom. Headed over towards Split Rock for another nice scenery-appreciation break. Then it was finishing the Loop and heading back along Timberline down to the bottom of the Zigzag Canyon where we enjoyed second lunch. Brew, our hiking companion, greatly enjoyed the nice cold water at this stop!

Climbing out of ZZ was a non-issue. Funny how often I hear folks moan and groan about that exit, but this first time going in that direction just didn't seem like much at all. (Must be all those "training hikes" in the Gorge?) The views into ZZ canyon, and up to Mississippi Head were as awesome as always!

Easy descent down the Hidden Lake trail followed. We were both a little disappointed at hitting the lake, as it wasn't at all an option to take a quick dip (even for the dog) that we'd sort of hoped it might be. Nice enough, but nothing destination worthy, to be sure! Soon enough, we were back at the road for the short walk back to our starting trailhead.

This (lower) loop is definitely best done clockwise, although that does leave the somewhat steeper route for descent.