Cardwell Hill and Allen Throop Loop

You can access the trail from the Fitton Green trailhead, which is located on Panorama Drive. Parking is available there.

Yes, this trail is family-friendly and allows dogs. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and you clean up after them.

The trail offers beautiful scenery year-round, but spring is particularly lovely for viewing seasonal wildflowers in the South Meadow. Fall also provides pleasant hiking conditions and vibrant foliage. Consider that some sections might be busy during peak times, while others can be overgrown.

No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to access the Fitton Green Natural Area or the trails within it, including the Cardwell Hill and Allen Throop Loop.

The loop is generally rated as moderate due to its distance and elevation gain. While some segments, like the Allen Throop Loop itself, are considered easy with minimal elevation changes, other parts involve more significant climbs. Expect varied terrain, including ridgetop paths and some wide dirt or gravel roads.

The trail offers a diverse landscape, transitioning between open oak savannah hillsides and denser forest sections. You'll find ridgetop paths with panoramic views of Corvallis, Philomath, the Oregon Coast Range, and Marys Peak. The South Meadow is known for seasonal wildflowers, and there's a gazebo offering scenic overlooks. Some sections may be wide dirt or gravel roads, with occasional loose gravel.

One of the main highlights is the extensive panoramic views from the ridgetop paths, including distant mountains and local cities. Be sure to visit the gazebo for a perfect spot to take in the scenery. The View of Valley Inversion from Fitton Green is a particularly stunning viewpoint.

Yes, the Cardwell Hill and Allen Throop Loop combines sections of several official trails. You'll hike along parts of the Fitton Green North-South Trail, the Cardwell Hill Trail, and the Allen Throop Loop itself, which was dedicated to local activist Allen Throop.

Given its moderate difficulty and varied terrain, we recommend sturdy hiking shoes, water, and appropriate layers for changing weather conditions. Sun protection is advisable for the open savannah sections, and a map or GPS device can be helpful for navigation.

While there are no direct amenities on the trail itself, the Fitton Green Natural Area is located near the cities of Corvallis and Philomath, where you can find a variety of cafes, pubs, and other accommodations.

The loop is approximately 7.2 kilometers (4.5 miles) long and generally takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to enjoy the views.