Place

Barlow Pass

A forest of conifer trees covered in snow. A brown sign on the right for the Oregon Trail. — Follow the signs to hike sections of the historic Barlow Road.
NPS Photo

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Trailhead/Hiker Register

Barlow Pass, at 4,160 ft., is the highest point on the Barlow Road. From this area, you can access the upper trailhead for the Pioneer Woman’s Grave Trail #485.

This trail winds through conifer forest for about 1.2 miles to the Pioneer Woman’s Grave (3,720’ elev.). The path cuts across a broad, northerly bend in OR-35, following the territorial stage route across Barlow Pass and intersects portions of the original Barlow Road along the way. About 0.8 mile from the upper trailhead, the forest opens to a spectacular, unobstructed view of the south face of Mount Hood, with the Palmer and White River glaciers fully visible.

Site Information

Location (Forest Road 3531/Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway, off of Highway 35, Oregon)
After turning onto Forest Road 3531/Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway at Barlow Pass, drive 0.3 mile to a replica Civilian Conservation Corps sign that marks the junction of the Barlow Road /Forest Road 3530, on the left. Just beyond the sign and junction is a fee parking lot and portable toilet (in season). The Barlow Road crosses the parking lot. Through the opening of the trees on the uphill side of the lot, the Barlow Road segment of the Oregon National Historic Trail intersects the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, a long-distance hiking trail extending between Canada and Mexico. To reach the trailhead to the Pioneer Woman’s Grave, turn toward the downhill side of the lot and walk through a large opening in the trees. A sign shows the way. Remember, permits are required for use of this parking area and the trail.

Safety Considerations