About this place

This trailhead gives access to the Cow Creek Trail #1424. This National Recreation Trail follows Cow Creek for approximately four miles through a dense stand of Douglas-fir and Western Hemlock. The elevation ranges from 4,160 feet at its highest to 2,500 feet at its lowest. Giant old growth, lush glades of moss and ferns -including maidenhair and swordfern- and brilliant fall colors are features of trail. The final miles of the trail climb the ridge to Railroad Gap Trailhead and Forest Road 3232-911, passing through a part of the forest that was replanted after lightning fires burned much of Southern Oregon in 1987. Be prepared to ford five creek crossings up to two feet deep or look for stable, downed logs to use as bridges. There are no garbage services at this trailhead, please be prepared to pack out your trash. From Azalea, OR, travel east on County Road 36 for about 18 miles to the junction of Forest Road 3232. Turn right onto Forest Road 3232 and continue for about 1 mile, the trailhead is on the right side of the road.