Cedar Grove Trail

The Cedar Grove Trail on the Malheur National Forest is truly a treat for nature enthusiasts and their pups. Meandering through lush canopies of conifers and verdant understory of grass, shrubs and wildflowers, this one-mile there-and-back trail provides an amazing backdrop of flora and fauna for your hike with Fido.

On this national forest, your pup must be leashed in developed areas like parking lots and campgrounds. However, on the trail, your dog is allowed off-leash, so long as they are under control and you clean up after them. Be sure that Fido’s recall is on point as you may encounter deer. While this trail is lightly used, you might also pass a few other hikers along the way.

The Cedar Grove Trail starts off crossing a wide open ridge and then dips into a forested area. In spring and summer, there is a dazzling display of wildflowers along the single-track path. You and your pooch will have plenty to see and sniff as you check out the especially beautiful mountain lady slipper and many other showy blossoms.

Continuing on the trail, you and your dog will notice the dense areas of timber and rugged rock outcroppings. The terrain gets a little steep through this area, but the scenery is worth it.

This trail winds through open areas and dense forest, so it’s a good idea to dress in layers. Water is not available along the trail, so plan for you and your pup’s hydration needs accordingly.

Although wildfires raged through this portion of the Malheur National Forest in 2006, today the area is remarkably green as it continues to recover from the inferno. One special part of the forest that firefighters were able to protect was the trail’s namesake 26-acre Alaska yellow cedar grove.

If you’re looking for a peaceful place for a walk in the woods with your pup, the Cedar Grove Trail just might be the perfect spot!