Jackson Creek Wooden Bridge

The Dimple Hill Loop via Dan's Trail offers a dynamic jogging experience through diverse landscapes, from shady forests filled with Oregon grape and sword fern to open meadows. You'll cross the picturesque Jackson Creek Wooden Bridge before tackling the main ascent. The highlight is undoubtedly the summit of Dimple Hill, where you're rewarded with expansive panoramic views of Corvallis and the Willamette Valley, and on clear days, even distant Cascade peaks.

This popular trail is a moderate 5.0-mile (8.0 km) loop with 802 feet (245 metres) of elevation gain, typically completed in about 1 hour. It's a multi-use path, so expect to share it with hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. The trail is easily accessible from Corvallis, and while specific parking details aren't always clear, arriving early is a good strategy for busy days.

Dan's Trail is named after Dan Petrequin, a dedicated volunteer trail builder, with a memorial plaque at the Dimple Hill summit. This route is notable for blending natural beauty with a significant physical challenge, making it a local favorite for those seeking a rewarding workout. The picnic bench at the top is a perfect spot to enjoy the scenery after your climb.

The Dimple Hill Loop via Dan's Trail offers a diverse and engaging jogging experience, winding through shady forests filled with Oregon grape and sword fern, then opening into wide meadows. The highlight is undoubtedly the Dimple Hill summit, which provides expansive valley views and, on clear days, glimpses of distant peaks like Marys Peak and the central Cascades. This difficult route covers 8.0 miles (12.8 km) with a substantial 1408 feet (429 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 42 minutes, making it a solid challenge for experienced runners.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with parking readily available at Chip Ross Park. The trail is a multi-use path, so you'll encounter hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians along the way. Be mindful that wooden bridges, such as the Jackson Creek Wooden Bridge, can become slippery after rain, so adjust your pace accordingly. This trail is a local favorite for its combination of a good workout and rewarding vistas.

This popular trail system is part of the McDonald Forest, known for its commitment to mature forest and habitat conservation. The trail itself is named after Dan Petrequin, a dedicated volunteer trail builder, with a memorial plaque honoring him at the Dimple Hill summit. It's a prime example of the popular trails Dimple Hill Corvallis has to offer, providing both a physical challenge and a connection to local history and nature.

Embark on a moderate jogging adventure along the Upper Horse and Dan's Trail Loop, a 5.8-mile (9.4 km) route that takes about 1 hour and 10 minutes to complete. You'll gain 983 feet (300 metres) in elevation as you navigate through managed mature forestland. Expect varied terrain, from packed gravel paths to sections with exposed roots and switchbacks, particularly on the Upper Horse Trail. A key highlight is the ascent to Dimple Hill, offering expansive views of the valley, Corvallis, and on clear days, the distant Cascade Mountains.

This loop is open all year, so you can plan your visit whenever suits you best. Parking is generally available at the various trailheads located within the McDonald Forest area. Be prepared to share the path, as the trails are popular with a variety of users, including hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Starting your jog earlier in the day might help you avoid peak traffic, especially on weekends.

The Upper Horse and Dan's Trail Loop is nestled within the McDonald Research Forest, an area dedicated to forestry research and education. This unique setting means you'll be jogging through actively managed forestland, offering a glimpse into sustainable forest practices. The trail's multi-use nature reflects the forest's role as a community resource, providing recreation alongside its research mission.