Eagle Fern Park

Fun Trail Facts

3 miles north of Estacada and about 18 miles east of Clackamas, Eagle Fern Park is the largest park in Clackamas County and a fabulous place to take in a quick hike and let the kids hit the playground. The red cedars, old growth Douglas fir, and sounds of Eagle Creek provide excellent companionship. 

Trail Information

Hike Name
Eagle Fern Park Hike
County & State
Clackamas County, Oregon
Forest
Mount Hood National Forest
Latitude & Longitude (DEC)
45.3200897, -122.2872767
Family Friendliness
Utterly and entirely family friendly
Hike Difficulty
Easy
Elevation
1,335 feet
Elevation Gain
250 feet
Distance
I'd say the full loop and exploring side trails was 1.5 miles.
Route Type
Loop
Access to Trailhead
Incredibly easy. Pure pavement, ample parking.
Fee
Day-use fee

Trip Report

Departing from the north side of the parking lot, you are immediately greeted with a pretty awesome suspension bridge crossing the beautiful waters of Eagle Creek. Onward, a really smooth nature trail commences through interpretive signs and provided an excellent opportunity to teach the Trail Kids about the nearby creek and the makeup of the old-growth forest. 

Western hemlock, red alder, and Douglas fir above. Salmonberry, sword fern, oxalis, and trillium spread underneath. The moss was everywhere.

Past the nature trail, the way narrows and starts going up. There was a bit of blowdown still along the top of the loop, and a few garter snakes sunning themselves where it was open.

With the exception of the areas directly alongside (or over) Eagle Creek, it was a relatively safe trek for my five-year-old. As long as I didn't trip, Trail Daughter was safe and cozy in her carrier.

Fallen logs, rock overhangs, and picnic spots are abound throughout the short loop. When we had spent our share of time out there, it was time to cross the bridge and return to the park itself. A playground and more learning exhibits await, making for a perfect tandem with the short hike we just completed.

We lucked out with the time of the year, as it was empty during our weekend visit. I hear that's usually not the case, and it is so understandable why. This is an awesome place for hiking with little ones.