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The Pocket Creek trail system is a less popular cousin to the Teacup Lake trail system to the south, and that's why it may be an ideal option for your afternoon ski. While it doesn’t have some of the amenities that Teacup offers, Pocket Creek has plenty of what you need for a great day skiing within view of Mount Hood. Beginner and intermediate trail options loop around the area, and a connecting trail that leads to the Teacup Lake system makes for a longer loop.
For an intermediate, 6-mile ski, take the Meadows Creek Tie Trail to the Meadows Creek Trail, and follow it until the junction with the Pocket Creek Trail on Forrest Service Road 3540. Parts of this lower section are uneven, including a small stream crossing that relies on snowpack for a bridge. The trail is well marked, however, and made beautiful by the abundance of Spanish moss.
The trail opens up considerably once you cross the East Fork of the Hood River bridge. As you admire the views, try to keep your eyes open for the blue diamond trail markers. They are a little less frequent in the stretch between the East Fork bridge and the Pocket Creek Trail junction. The trail ascends sharply from this crossing up to a ridge before it meets the road that will take you back to the original Meadows Creek Tie. A nice, wide trail for descent rewards your climb.
Of course, you may take the loop in the opposite direction as well, but be aware that your descent will be through some tighter sections of the trail.
Recommended Gear
Before you head out on your next Mount Hood adventure, make sure you have the right gear!
Here's a list of our go-to snowshoeing essentials to get you started:
Men's and Women's • $64.95 • Waterproof, Breathable, Lightweight, Abrasion-resistant
If you are snowshoeing into avalanche terrain, you should be prepared, equipped and educated on how to use avalanche rescue and snow safety gear - including but not limited to an avalanche beacon/transceiver, probe, and shovel.
Logistics + Planning
Preferable season(s)
Winter
Congestion
Low
Parking Pass
Sno-Park Parking Permit (required in OR + WA 11.01 thru 04.30)
Pros
Varied terrain. Less crowded than nearby Teacup. Picturesque creek crossing.
Cons
Wayfinding isn't obvious in sections. Not as many views as at nearby Teacup.
Snowshoed on 1/4. Maybe 4-6 inches of powder over a packed (but not deep) base. Deep enough for snowshoes but many people were out with just boots. Parking lot was 1/2 full at 11am.
Spent many a wonderful day at Pocket Creek both snow shoeing and XC. Options also include a 5.5 mile (ish) out and back. Slow, steady uphill followed by a downhill that makes you feel, if you're on skis, like a hero.
Agreed: not many vistas for the first couple of miles, but beautiful woods/stream crossings.
Considerations:
--snow shoe and ski trails sometimes blend, so don't expect pristine.
--Dogs welcome
--The map (see left) is pretty accurate, though the loop has more like a popsicle on a stick
Skied the 6 mile loop from Pocket Creek trail head, we went around clockwise and had stunning views of Mt Hood on a clear and sunny day. The Meadows Creek Tie Trail requires some effort getting up and down a handful of humps and bumps, still fine for a highly motivated beginner but if at all concerned the skiing on FSR 3540 is excellent and that is where the views are if you pick the right day. Have fun!
Comments
Agreed: not many vistas for the first couple of miles, but beautiful woods/stream crossings.
Considerations:
--snow shoe and ski trails sometimes blend, so don't expect pristine.
--Dogs welcome
--The map (see left) is pretty accurate, though the loop has more like a popsicle on a stick
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