Maple Ridge, Vortex & Riverbend Loop Hike – Milo McIver State Park

Located next to the Clackamas River near Estacada, the trails at Milo McIver State Park are great for rainy day hikes with the sound of the river and green forests full of moss.

Maple Ridge, Vortex, and Riverbend loop
5.5 miles 475 ft gain
Note: Oregon State Park Pass is required (pay stations at the park)

This large state park provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including river access points for rafting or fishing, a 27-hole disc golf course, a campground, and miles of trails for hikers and horses. Since it’s not far from Portland, I like to go here in the winter when I need a quick hike. The trails highlighted here go through forest, across meadows, and alongside the Clackamas River.

There are multiple places to begin the hike, though I usually start near the Lower McIver Boat Ramp at the north end of the park.

The Maple Ridge Trail is my favorite part of this loop – filled with mossy trees and small creeks.

   

The best views are at the Milo McIver Memorial Viewpoint, which makes a great snack stop location for the loop hike.