TKO’s 15th Anniversary – Old Vista Ridge Trail Party

Crew Leader:  Josh Durham, Tom Kloster

Hike Distance:  Up to 4 miles

Elevation Gain: up to 450’

Hike Difficulty: Easy

Work Difficulty: Easy

Overview:  Old Vista Ridge Trail #626A has been brought back to life over the course of TKO’s history. It was at this trail in 2007 that we pulled out our garden tools and found the inspiration to build a nonprofit for hiking trails.

Project description: After a safety briefing and tool talk, we will hike to brushing and tread section along the trail, clearing logs, cutting back brush, improve eroded sections, and improve drainage

Hiking information: We will start our trail service where the first bit of trail needs attention, heading out to Owl Point by lunchtime. Total hiking distance will depend on the amount of trail we are able to clear, but should not exceed 4 miles.

What to bring: Bring your lunch, snacks, and plenty of water.

What to wear:

• Hiking or work boots are strongly recommended. (Please wear something sturdy that will protect your toes from sharp tools. Open toed shoes will not be allowed.)
• Work gloves (loaner gloves available)
• Long sleeved shirts and pants.
• Rain gear as appropriate for the weather
• TKO will supply hard hats and safety glasses

Directions to Vista Ridge Trailhead (there’s no cell coverage, plan before you go!):

From Zigzag: drive about 10.5 miles north on Lolo Pass Road to Lolo Pass and take the second right onto gravel FS 18, which is signed for Lost Lake. After 5.5 miles of gravel the pavement resumes, and 5 miles beyond that (a total of 10.5 miles from Lolo Pass) make a sharp right onto paved FS 16, where a sign points to Vista Ridge Trail #626.

From Hood River: Follow Tucker Road and Dee Highway to the old mill site at Dee. Fork right onto the Lost Lake Highway, and follow signs to Lost Lake at various twists and turns through orchards and forest. Turn left onto paved Lolo Pass Road, drop to a crossing of the West Fork Hood River, then climb to the junction with paved FS 16. Turn left here.

Once on FS 16 from the Lolo Pass Road junction, drive 5.4 miles on paved FS 16. Then turn sharply right at a very large intersection onto gravel FS 1650. Stay left at an unmarked junction at about 3 miles, and park along the shoulder just beyond this junction. The trailhead is a scenic 15 minute walk from here. Coordinates: 45.443267, -121.729225