Vineyard Mountain and Dave's Trail Loop

The full loop is approximately 10.4 kilometers (about 6.5 miles) and typically takes around 1 hour and 23 minutes to jog, depending on your pace and fitness level. It involves significant elevation changes, so plan accordingly.

The terrain is varied, featuring a mix of natural tread singletrack, sections of old roadbed, and newly constructed bench-cut trails. Dave's Trail, in particular, is a sustainable bench-cut singletrack with grade reversals and switchbacks. You might encounter 'squishy spots' after wet weather, and some sections have exposed stumps. A short segment of gravel doubletrack also appears on the Vineyard Mountain Trail.

Yes, joggers can enjoy scenic views looking east into the Willamette Valley from the summit of Vineyard Mountain. An old chimney on a cement foundation marks this viewpoint. You'll also pass by the Upper Vineyard Mountain Trail and Daves Road 580, which are notable sections of the route.

The trail is enjoyable in most seasons. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall offers vibrant foliage. After wet weather, expect some 'squishy spots' but generally not overly muddy conditions. For the best experience, consider visiting during drier periods to fully appreciate the varied terrain.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on the trails within the McDonald-Dunn Research Forest. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all users.

No, there are typically no permits or entrance fees required to access the McDonald-Dunn Research Forest, where this loop is located. It's open to the public for recreational use.

The loop is accessible from various points within the McDonald-Dunn Research Forest. A common access point with parking is the Lewisburg Saddle parking area, where informative map displays are often available to assist with navigation.

This loop is generally rated as 'moderate' for trail running. With approximately 288 meters (945 feet) of elevation gain over 10.4 kilometers, it's considered a physically demanding route. While scenic, it's best suited for those with good fitness and some experience with inclines and varied trail surfaces.

The loop traverses through Oregon State University's McDonald Forest, offering a rich natural setting. You can expect to be immersed in a forest environment with opportunities to spot various wildlife and wildflowers, especially during spring.

Yes, the route intersects with and utilizes sections of several other trails within the McDonald-Dunn Research Forest. Notably, it includes portions of the Vineyard Mountain Trail, Dave's Trail, Old Growth Trail, New Growth Trail, and Ridge Trail. You'll also encounter sections of William A. Davies Road and Harry J. Nettleton Road.

Given the varied terrain and elevation changes, we recommend sturdy trail running shoes with good grip. Bringing water, especially on warmer days, is essential. Depending on the season, layers of clothing are advisable, and a map or GPS device can be helpful for navigation within the forest.