Middle Fork National Recreation Trail
~3 days · 37.2 mi · moderate · Point-to-point
Quick facts
What the Middle Fork National Recreation Trail is known for
Follows the Middle Fork of the Willamette River for more than 30 miles from its headwaters at Timpanogas Lake downstream to near Sand Prairie in Oregon's Willamette National Forest. A National Recreation Trail descending gradually through forest along the river corridor. Point-to-point, typically 2-4 days.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 5,177 ft to 17,448 ft over 37.2 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 2.4 mi · 6%
- Downhill 26.7 mi · 72%
- Flat 7.8 mi · 21%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Middle Fork National Recreation Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Middle Fork National Recreation Trail in about 3 days (2 nights out) over its 37.2 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Middle Fork National Recreation Trail?
The Middle Fork National Recreation Trail climbs roughly 1,053 ft total — about 28 ft per mile, topping out near 5,318 ft.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.