This trail enters the 47,160-acre Mt Hood Wilderness Area that is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. The highest segment of the trail breaks out of the trees on Zigzag Mountain’s ridgeline. A long loop can be done by starting out at Riley Horse Camp combining Horseshoe Ridge Trail with a segment of Zigzag Mt Trail and Cast Creek Trail. The trail begins at Riley Horse Camp in what is known as the "Old Maid Flat” area. This first section of the trail is fairly level. After crossing Lost Creek which is bridged for hikers and is a ford for stock, the trail begins its steady climb along Horseshoe Ridge. It ends as the trail breaks out of treeline on Zigzag Mountain.

Regulations & Leave No Trace Information: ?? Wilderness Permits are required between May 15 and Oct 15, but are free and self-issuing at a permit box station on the trail. ?? Group size is limited to 12. Stock are counted in the group size. For example, 3 people each riding their own horse plus a spare horse in the group for packing would make a group of 7. ?? Unproccessed livestock feed is prohibited, preventing non-native plant spread. Leave No Trace Principles ?? Plan Ahead and Prepare Be Considerate of Other Visitors ?? Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Leave What You Find ?? Dispose of Waste Properly Minimize Campfire Impacts ?? Respect Wildlife Noxious weeds have taken a small hold in the Mt Hood Wilderness. To prevent from bringing non-native plants into the forest, clean your animal, trailer, truck and gear before leaving home. A few days before your trip, change your stock over to processed feed and only allow it to graze in weed free pasture.

Basic Directions