Cast Creek Trail was reconstructed in 1998 and goes from Riley Horse Camp to the Zigzag Mountain Trail system. It is a steady climb with numerous switchbacks going though a forested Westside Cascade mountainside. While it is a steady climb, there are not steeply exposed side slopes.This trail enters the 47,160 acre Mt Hood Wilderness Area, which is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Given that is it starts out of Riley Horse Camp, this trail is an excellent opportunity for equestrians. Combine with Horseshoe Ridge Trail and part of Zigzag Mt Trail for a 13-14 mile ride.

Regulations & Leave No Trace Information: ?? Wilderness Permits are required between May 15 and Oct 15, but are free and self-issuing at a permit box station along the trail. ?? Group size is limited to 12 in the Mt Hood Wilderness. Stock count in group size. ?? Unprocessed livestock feed is prohibited. Any feed that may serve as a seed source for non-native plans is considered unprocessed. ?? Hitching, tethering or picketing any stock within 100’ of any water source is prohibited.

Leave No Trace – Noxious weeds have taken a small hold in the Mt Hood Wilderness. To prevent from bringing non-native plants into the forest, clean your animal, trailer, truck and gear before leaving home. A few days before your trip, change your stock over to processed feed and only allow it to graze in weed free pasture. The cumulative impact of so many footprints has been significant. Bring a collapsible bucket to water your horse.

Basic Directions