Obsidian Trail is a 11.8 mile out and back trail located near Blue River, Oregon that offers the chance to see wildlife and is rated as moderate. The trail is primarily used for hiking and backpacking. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.
FIRE CLOSURE: From Sep 25, 2020 - May 15, 2021 there are closures in this park or area due to wildfire. For more information, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/alerts/mthood/alerts-notices
Fun day on the trail. The fall leaves on hwy. 242 were beautiful. Very peaceful on the trail with no other hikers out today. The trail had some icy spots. We did the entire loop and made it through the downed trees. Definitely have to ninja your way up over, under and around trees. This will slow your pace down when you hit this area on both sides of the loop. We enjoyed the challenge that nature put in front of us. Our dogs had fun going over and under the trees. The waterfall was very pretty today with the fog. If you are looking for a good adventure this is the trail. Hurry and hike this before 242 is closed for winter. Happy trails!
This usually 5 star trail was reduced to just a 3 star outing due the substantial amount of timber that covered the trail in both directions after crossing White Branch Creek. First tried up Glacier View and encountered many large down trees (6-8) that seemed to go on quite a ways. Turned around and tried up the other fork towards Obsidian Falls and found a similar situation. Due to the number and large size of the trees getting through and around was very challenging. Eventually turned around and called it a day. Lots of work needed next Spring to get this trail back in shape.
Beautiful trail, did this last year and it’s definitely worth the permit. Would highly recommend just make sure you have the right thing printed out from the email. It’s also somewhat busy with PCT hikers at certain points but nothing wrong with that. Also a few places to potentially get water.
Backpacked for 3 days. Hiked in day 1, trail was clean and beginning friendly though tough and sort of steep in some spots. Explored on day 2, lots of lakes and beautiful trail to run around on. Hiked out day 3, all downhill basically and made for a real easy departure - but I was finally able to really take in the scenery. Gorgeous trail, planning a return trip already.
We hit a weather-perfect day: a rare cooler day with highs in the mid 70's and no smoke at all. Trail is in excellent condition. Thanks to all you other hikers out there for respecting this low-traffic paradise. Not an ounce of trash anywhere and no dog poop to be seen. Folks had masks or buffs or patiently socially distanced.
Nice views of the sisters and some wildflowers. My favorite part of the hike was actually the PCT portion. The Obsidian is amazing to see just laying all around. Would like to come back and backpack/camp here next time.
Awesome hike. Very manageable for beginners - incline doesn’t get too steep. Beautiful views. Highly recommend taking the loop clockwise!
Hiked this trail on 7/30. After the first three miles the hike gets interesting. Lava rock, creeks, waterfalls, Mountain views, fields of obsidian and so many wildflowers. Unfortunately the mosquitos were out in full force, be prepared. I would recommend doing the loop portion clockwise. We did it counterclockwise and were constantly looking back at the mountains. Beautiful hike!
Gorgeous hike. Began at 8:30am to beat the heat. The trail has it all. Mountain vistas, burned out areas, moonscapes, 6 babbling brooks to cross on stepping stones, beautiful high mountain glens, old growth . No snow. Probably saw a dozen people. If you have a filter, there a lot of running water or bring plenty. We went up the eastern side of the lollipop which I’d do again because you’re looking up to North and Middle Sister as you ascend. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Gorgeous trail (especially after the first 3 miles) with an amazing variety of scenery and wonderful views. As others have noted, make sure to have mosquito repellent, and your permit! (A very nice ranger asked for our permit a few miles in.) The shallow, cold streams are especially great. There are a few patches of snow in shady areas -- nice to see and feel on a hot day.
Great trail . Little snow in some places near Glacier Way and PTC. Bugs are kind of bad.