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Firelane 12 to BPA Rd Loop
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“Portland Wilderness Walks” by Jim Thayer and published by Timber press will be released in the Spring of 2008. It will describe this trail in detail including professional maps, photos, comprehensive coverage of the fauna, flora and history of the area.
I have retained a brief summary of the walks on this site along with the my original maps, but would urge the interested hiker to purchase the book as it contains a much more in-depth coverage of directions and the context of each of the walks. Moreover there is much more in the book that will give more meaning to these walks than could possibly be conveyed by these funky GPS generated maps. The experience of finding, recording and understanding the significance of these walks brought me a whole new understanding of how important the wild outskirts of Portland are to our culture and to our heritage. And my hope is to acquaint you not only with some exquisite wilderness hikes, but perhaps also a new way to consider the importance of what lies on the outskirts of our fair city.
Us this site for easily downloadable rudimentary maps, but do consider investing in the book (it’s designed to fit in your pocket) for a more thorough and meaningful look at these forests. - Jim Thayer
Brief summary: Near the far end of Forest Park, this “secret” loop encompasses some of the most scenic areas of the far north of Forest Park. This is an ideal walk for a clear day, as it provides spectacular views of Mt. Baker, St. Helens and Adams, as well as Sauvie’s Island and the confluence of the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. The route features lovely well maintained trails through a pristine and remote little valley. Nice open walking along the BPA trail, with its spectacular view from the promontory, finished off with a seldom used descent along fire lane 13. It does involve about 100 yards of “bushwhacking” to return to the entry point.
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