1. Opal Creek

Opal Creek became a national rallying ground for the old-growth preservation movement in the late 1980s, ultimately leading to designation of the Opal Creek Wilderness in 1996. Renowned as one of few remaining extensive tracts of low-elevation old forest in western Oregon, Opal Creek attracted thousands of visitors each year. A complex fire history and broad range of growing conditions produced a diverse and patchy forest populated with enormous Douglas-fir and western redcedar on the more productive sites. Opal Creek itself is justly prized for its crystal-clear pools and dazzling waterfalls.

Unfortunately, the Beachie Fire exploded through this area at very high intensity on Labor Day 2020 leaving snag-covered slopes, large areas of blowdown, and a few remnant pockets of surviving trees. The fire also devastated Jawbone Flats and the buildings and infrastructure used by the Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center, a valuable environmental education non-profit group.

The access road and trail remain closed, and the trail may not be reopened for several more years. Though Opal Creek remains dazzling, it is doubtful that any substantial amount of old growth remains along this hike.