Kopetski / Opal Creek Trail #4187
This trail accesses Opal Creek Scenic Area and Opal Creek Wilderness, following the Little North Santiam River through a large Douglas-Fir and Western Hemlock forest to its tributaries, Opal Creek and Battle Ax Creek, then turns south and follows Opal Creek, crossing Flume Creek at a picturesque waterfall location. This trail was rerouted in 2014, and now crosses at Opal Pool Bridge, follows Forest Service Rd 2209 for ¼ mile before heading back into the forest.
This trail does not offer connectivity to Opal Lake. It ends at Cedar Flats approximately 2 miles northeast of Opal Lake.
Specific Trail Information
Trail Number
General Information
A valid Recreation Pass is required at Opal Creek (Gate) Trailhead.
Wilderness self issue permit needed.
No potable water. Water from streams should be filtered or treated.
Special regulations are in place to help protect this area and preserve the experience for you and for future visitors including:
- Parking Restrictions
- Campfire Prohibition
- Wilderness Regulations
- Weed Free Feed Required
Address: 44125 North Santiam Highway SE Detroit, OR 97342
Phone: (503) 854-3366
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Email: sm.fs.mf@usda.gov
Getting There
Trailhead/Starting Points
Access from Opal Creek (Gate) Trailhead (Fee site)
Directions
From Salem, travel East on Highway 22 to milepost 23 at the Swiss Village Restaurant. Turn left on North Fork Road, which is marked "Little North Santiam Recreation Area". Travel about 21 miles on Forest Road 2209 to the Opal Creek Trailhead parking area.
To access Kopetski / Opal Creek Trail, Hike approximately 3 miles up the road past the gate. Opal Creek Trail will begin with a foot-bridge crossing the Little North Santiam River on the right.
To access Whetstone Mountain Trail, Hike approximately ¾ of a mile up the road past the gate and the Whetstone Mountain Trailhead will be on the left.
