Camas Crest

The Camas Crest Trail, located in the Thurston Hills Natural Area near Springfield, Oregon, offers mountain bikers a challenging and scenic ride through diverse terrain. This 7.3-mile trail features an elevation change of approximately 1,094 feet, providing riders with a mix of uphill climbs and downhill descents amidst picturesque oak savanna and forested landscapes.

Trail Summary

Trailhead: Off Weyerhaeuser Rd.

Length: Approximately 7.3 miles, but varies with access point

Elevation: Gain of 1,100 ft.

Difficulty: Rated as intermidiate

Surface Conditions: Primarily double-track, with gravel sections and dirt paths

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Trailhead Location and Access Points

The Camas Crest Trail can be accessed from multiple points within the Thurston Hills Natural Area. The main trailhead is located off Weyerhaeuser Road, which is accessible by bicycle or on foot from either Mount Vernon Road or Mountaingate Drive. For those driving, there is a parking area just off Highway 126 where the Mossy Maple Trail begins, serving as another access point to the trail system. The natural area, opened to the public in 2017, is situated just east of Springfield, Oregon, making it easily accessible for local residents and visitors alike. Hikers and bikers share most of the trails in the area, with some downhill runs designated for bikers only, ensuring a diverse range of experiences for different user groups.

Elevation Gain and Difficulty Level

The Camas Crest Trail presents a moderately challenging experience for mountain bikers, with an elevation gain of approximately 1,094 feet over its 7.3-mile length. This elevation profile contributes to the trail’s intermediate difficulty rating, making it suitable for riders with some experience but potentially challenging for beginners. The trail’s doubletrack surface offers a mix of terrain, including climbs, descents, and potentially technical sections. While not as demanding as some advanced mountain biking trails, the Camas Crest Trail requires a moderate level of fitness and bike handling skills to navigate comfortably. Riders should be prepared for a workout, especially during the uphill sections, but can also enjoy the reward of scenic views and exhilarating descents along the route.

SPRINGFIELD

Route Length and Surface Conditions

The Camas Crest Trail extends through the Thurston Hills Natural Area. The trail primarily consists of doubletrack, which is a wider trail format that allows for side-by-side riding or easier passing. Surface conditions vary along the route, with the trail utilizing an existing dirt and gravel road that accesses the undeveloped western portion of the natural area. This mix of surfaces provides riders with a diverse riding experience, from smoother gravel sections to potentially more challenging dirt paths. The trail’s doubletrack nature and varied surface conditions contribute to its moderate difficulty level, offering a balance between accessibility and challenge for mountain bikers of different skill levels.

Sources:

Oregon Hikers, MTB Project, Trail Forks, All Trails

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