Henry Hagg Lake Hiking Trails

Learn about henry hagg lake hiking trails

If you’re looking for henry hagg lake hiking trails, you’re in the right place. Here’s a plain-English guide to the main loop, shorter options, what the terrain is like, and how to plan a visit. You’ll learn what to expect in each season, where to park, and tips locals actually use.

Quick Answer

Henry Hagg Lake’s main hike is a roughly 13.5-mile dirt loop around the reservoir inside Scoggins Valley Park near Gaston. It’s rolling, often muddy in winter, and shared with mountain bikers. You can also do short out-and-backs from any picnic area. A day-use fee, restrooms, and year-round access make it an easy day trip.

What henry hagg lake hiking trails Means

When people say “henry hagg lake hiking trails,” they’re usually talking about:

  • The lake’s Perimeter Trail (Hagg Lake Trail): about 13–14 miles circling the shore.
  • Shorter segments you can hike from multiple access points (picnic areas and boat ramps).
  • Multi-use paths shared by hikers, runners, and mountain bikers.

It’s all within Scoggins Valley Park, 5 minutes from downtown Gaston and about 15 minutes from Forest Grove.

Why People Search for This in Gaston, Oregon

  • It’s one of the closest loop hikes to Forest Grove and Hillsboro.
  • A full loop is perfect for training (trail runs, long hikes).
  • Families like the short, scenic segments near picnic areas.
  • It pairs well with Gaston wine country or a meal in town after your hike.

What to Expect

  • Trail type: Mostly singletrack dirt with roots, short bridges, and rolling hills.
  • Distance & difficulty:
    • Full loop: roughly 13.5 miles, moderate, with 800–1,200 ft of total rolling gain.
    • Easy options: 1–4 mile out-and-backs from any access point.
  • Footing & seasons:
    • Winter–early spring: muddy, slick roots; waterproof shoes help.
    • Late spring: wildflowers, fuller creeks.
    • Summer: dry, warm, more traffic from boaters.
    • Fall: colorful foliage, variable rain.
  • Crowds: Weekends (especially summer) get busy; weekday mornings are quiet.
  • Shared use: Mountain bikes are common. Keep right on narrow sections, announce passes, and be alert on blind corners.
  • Facilities: Restrooms at major day-use areas; picnic tables and shelters. Limited drinking water—bring your own.
  • Fees & hours: Day-use fee per vehicle required at Scoggins Valley Park. Park is generally open year-round, dawn to dusk. Gates may close during storms or high fire risk—check before you go.
  • Wildlife & plants: Deer, birds, and seasonal poison oak along the trail edges; ticks in spring—stay on trail and check after your hike.
  • Cell service: Spotty around the lake; download a map.

Good starting points (all signed along the shore road):

  • Sain Creek Picnic Area: creeks, short bridges, pretty in spring.
  • C-Ramp (Boat Ramp C): popular access for runners doing the loop.
  • Dam/Scoggins Dam Overlook: easy access and views.
  • Elk or Eagle picnic areas: quieter segments with shade.

Distances from nearby towns:

  • Gaston: ~3–5 miles (5–10 minutes)
  • Forest Grove: ~7–9 miles (15 minutes)
  • Hillsboro: ~15–18 miles (25–30 minutes)
  • Portland: ~30–35 miles (45–60 minutes, traffic-dependent)

Tips for Visitors / Residents

  • Footwear: Wear sturdy shoes. In winter/spring, waterproof boots and gaiters are smart.
  • Direction: Clockwise or counterclockwise both work; riders often go counterclockwise—stay aware either way.
  • Short on time? Do a 2–4 mile out-and-back from Sain Creek or C-Ramp and turn around.
  • Families: Start near restrooms and picnic areas; bring a change of clothes if kids like puddles.
  • Safety: Carry water, snacks, a light rain layer, and a downloaded map. Tell someone your plan if doing the full loop.
  • Leave no trace: Stay on trail, pack out trash, and keep dogs on-leash.
  • Peak days: In summer, arrive early to find parking and cooler temps. Shoulder seasons offer quieter trails.
  • No camping: Hagg Lake is day-use only. Closest camping is at L.L. Stub Stewart State Park (about 30 minutes).

Frequently Asked Questions About henry hagg lake hiking trails

  • How far is this from Portland?

    • About 45–60 minutes west of Portland, near Gaston and Forest Grove.

  • What time of year is best?

    • Late spring through fall has better footing. Winter is scenic but muddy—great if you don’t mind wet conditions.

  • Is it kid-friendly?

    • Yes, for short segments near picnic areas. The full loop is long for most kids.

  • Are dogs allowed?

    • Yes, on leash. Bring waste bags and water.

  • Is parking available?

    • Yes, at multiple day-use areas around the shore. A paid day-use pass is required; check current rates on the county website.

  • Can I hike part of the loop and shuttle?

    • Yes. The paved road circles the lake, so it’s easy to stage cars at different access points.

Best Local Resources

Summary

Henry Hagg Lake offers a 13.5-mile loop and plenty of short hikes with year-round access near Gaston. Expect rolling dirt singletrack, shared use with bikes, and seasonal mud. Bring water, pay the day-use fee, and pick a segment that matches your time and energy.

  • Best Easy Hikes Near Gaston (Hagg Lake segments, Gales Creek, Stub Stewart)
  • Gaston Wine Country: Wineries Near Hagg Lake (Elk Cove, Montinore, and more)
  • Scoggins Valley Park Day-Use Guide (parking, picnic spots, boating and fishing basics)