The Boulder Ridge trailhead is located at the Wildwood Recreation Area just off 26 Highway in Welches, Oregon. This is a great conditioning hike, with a lot of elevation gain that isn’t too difficult. May is a good time to see rhododendrons and bear grass in bloom.

distance: 10.6 miles (out and back)
elevation gain: 3,450 ft.
high point: 4,300 ft.
difficulty: very strenuous
drive time from Portland: 1 hour
parking pass: NW Forest Pass
hike description: OregonHikers.org: Boulder Ridge to Huckleberry Mountain Hike

The Hike

Just after crossing over the Salmon River on a large bridge, the trail enters a mossy fairytale land. Cross a small bridge, then begin the hike up the ridge.

Rhododendrons bloom alongside the trail in May and June.

Viewpoint partway up the ridge – with views of the Salmon Huckleberry Wilderness

The trail ascends at a gentle grade along the side of a ridge.

At the summit of Huckleberry Mountain, we couldn’t see any views due to heavy fog.

Heading back, the fog gave the forest an ethereal feel.

Beargrass!