McNeil Point Hike

Overview

The Timberline Trail was originally planned to climb high above the Muddy Fork and over the rocky alpine buttress of McNeil Point. But after construction had begun, trail builders realized that the route would not be possible to build due to the terrain and persistent snowfields. Yet a stone shelter had already been built at McNeil Point and has been a favorite destination of hikers ever since. From the Top Spur Trailhead, follow the heavily used Top Spur trail through handsome, old-growth noble fir forest for one half mile before joining the Pacific Crest Trail (no. 2000). Turn right, and immediately arrive at a junction of four trails. The trail to the right is the continuation of the Pacific Crest Trail, and the routes to the left and straight ahead are the Timberline Trail (no. 600). While you could go left on the Timberline Trail to reach McNeil Point (which would save about 0.6 mile), a much more scenic option is to go straight on the other leg of the Timberline Trail for a spectacular traverse around Bald Mountain. Following this option, pass the wilderness registration sign, and continue through dense forest. About 150 yards from the main junction, you'll notice the unsigned trail that leads to the top of Bald Mountain. Then you'll abruptly reach the steep meadows of Bald Mountain's south-facing slopes. The Muddy Fork of the Sandy River rushes down from the mountain more than 2,000 feet below. Continue around Bald Mountain, and enjoy more stunning views until you enter a wooded area. Watch for an obvious cut-off trail on the left, marked with a fairly new sign, that climbs a low saddle and quickly joins the other fork of the Timberline Trail. If you miss this informal route, you will reach a log stile after a short distance - so backtrack from here to find the use path. Stop where the shortcut reaches the northern junction with the Timberline Trail, and remember the north junction should you want to follow the scenic route again on your return trip. (You can also follow the main trail back to the fou

Trail Stats

Photos

TopSpurMcNeilPoint.jpg

TopSpurMcNeilPoint.jpg

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400px-HoodMcNeilPoint01

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