Hares Canyon Trail Loop

The Hares Canyon Trail Loop is located within L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. You can park at one of the designated parking areas within the park, which provide access to the extensive trail system. Specific parking for the Hares Canyon Trail is usually well-marked within the park.

Yes, as the Hares Canyon Trail Loop is located within L.L. Stub Stewart State Park, a day-use parking fee or an Oregon State Parks Pass is required. You can purchase a day-use pass at the park entrance or through automated pay stations.

The Hares Canyon Trail Loop is generally considered to be of moderate difficulty. While it's accessible to various skill levels, joggers should have a good fitness level due to rolling hills and varied terrain. Beginners might find it a good challenge, but it's not a flat, easy route.

The terrain on this route is diverse, featuring natural surfaces, hiking paths, and some paved sections. You'll encounter both doubletrack and singletrack sections, indicating varied trail widths and surfaces, along with rolling hills. It's a mix of dirt, gravel, and possibly some paved areas.

The trail guides you through picturesque second-growth forests, wetlands, and rolling hills. You'll find views of the Coast Range from various points. A notable spot is the Hilltop Shelter & Viewpoint, offering a great place to rest and take in the scenery.

The trail can be enjoyed year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant conditions with mild temperatures and vibrant scenery. Spring brings wildflowers, while fall showcases beautiful foliage. Summer can be warm, and winter might involve muddy sections or occasional snow, so dress accordingly.

Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the Hares Canyon Trail Loop within L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. However, they must be kept on a leash at all times to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all trail users.

Yes, this route is part of an extensive multi-use trail system within L.L. Stub Stewart State Park. The route itself covers sections of the Hares Canyon Trail, and also passes through parts of the Stub Stewart Free Ride Area, Stub Stewart XC Area, and the Banks-Vernonia Trail. This allows for customized routes and distances.

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park is Oregon's first new state park in over three decades. Besides the required day-use fee, remember to stay on marked trails, pack out all trash, and keep dogs leashed. The park is multi-use, so you might encounter mountain bikers, equestrians, and other hikers. Be mindful and share the trails respectfully.

L.L. Stub Stewart State Park offers basic park amenities like restrooms and picnic areas. For cafes or more extensive services, you would need to venture outside the park to nearby towns. The park itself focuses on providing a natural outdoor experience rather than commercial establishments.

The park's rich biodiversity means you might spot various wildlife, especially during quieter times of day. Common sightings include deer, elk, and a variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for smaller mammals and listen for the sounds of the forest as you jog through the second-growth forests and wetlands.