29.2 hr
Overview
Freezeout Saddle , being the lowest point on the Summit Ridge of Hells Canyon , is a good destination for hikers who wish to access the high points of Oregon’s Hells Canyon earlier in the year. The road to Freezeout Trailhead is usually snow free in May and June, while Hat Point Road may still be covered with snow drifts. The loop described here takes you up to Freezeout Saddle , down the Saddle Creek Trail a short stretch and then on the High Trail in a long, high traverse north heading in and out of creek gullies at the 4,000 – 4,600 foot level. You’ll return to the Summit Ridge via the Temperance Creek Trail, a steep and rather arduous climb, before taking Lord Flat and Hat Point roads south for seven miles. A short trail connection on the Western Rim National Recreation Trail sends you back to Freezeout Saddle and thence down to your waiting vehicle. The area described can be divided into two shorter backpacking loops, briefly outlined at the end of this entry.
Trail Stats
82.6 km
3203 m
2042 m
—
—
Photos
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.
Trail photo
No caption provided.