Pioneer Bridle Trail #795

Hiking the entire Pioneer Bridle Trail #795, which stretches 8 to 8.6 miles, generally takes about 6 to 7 hours to complete. This duration accounts for its challenging terrain and significant elevation changes.

The terrain on the Pioneer Bridle Trail #795 is quite varied and challenging. You'll encounter sections that are fairly wide with grades under 10%, particularly near the Glacier View Trailhead. However, other parts become narrower and feature steep descents with grades over 20%, especially after passing the tunnel and before crossing Highway 26. The western half near Rhododendron can be flatter, while the eastern half from Government Camp is steeper, including steady climbs up Laurel Hill. Expect some very rocky areas, particularly in the section after crossing Highway 26.

Given its rating as 'Difficult' for hiking, significant elevation changes, and a typical completion time of 6-7 hours, the Pioneer Bridle Trail #795 is generally not recommended for beginners. It's best suited for experienced hikers looking for a challenging experience.

The Pioneer Bridle Trail #795 is generally open from May to early November. While lower sections might be accessible for most of the year, the upper parts are typically snowed in by December. For the best hiking conditions and to avoid snow, plan your visit between late spring and early fall.

You can access the trail from either the Pioneer Bridle Trailhead or the Glacier View Sno-park Trailhead. Both locations require a valid parking permit, such as a Northwest Forest Pass.

Yes, a valid parking permit, such as a Northwest Forest Pass, is required at both the Pioneer Bridle Trailhead and the Glacier View Sno-park Trailhead. You can find more information about passes on the USDA Forest Service website.

The trail is a multi-use path, popular with hikers, horses, and mountain bikers. While dogs are generally allowed in the Mt. Hood National Forest, it's always best to keep them on a leash and ensure they are well-behaved around other trail users and wildlife.

The trail is primarily forested, offering views of Douglas fir, western hemlock, and big leaf maples, which provide beautiful fall colors. You might spot huckleberries at higher elevations. Notable features include a mossy rock wall, rhododendron blooms in June, and a tunnel under an old highway. Historically, the trail incorporates segments of the Barlow Road, part of the Oregon Trail, and you'll pass a replica of the Tollgate where pioneers paid for access. Laurel Hill is also a historically significant, steep section.

Yes, hikers should be aware of a dangerous abandoned mine shaft located further along the trail after the tunnel. Exercise extreme caution, especially if hiking with children, and do not approach or enter the shaft. Also, remember it's a multi-use trail, so be mindful of mountain bikers and horseback riders.

Starting at the Glacier View Trailhead (3,600 feet elevation) means you'll begin with a mostly descending segment towards Tollgate (1,800 feet elevation). This initial section is generally under a 10% grade and fairly wide, offering a more gradual start before encountering the steeper and narrower sections further along the trail.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Pioneer Bridle Trail, Pioneer Bridle Trail #795, Glacier View Road, and the Mt. Hood Loop Highway (1925).