Last updated: June 14, 2024
Place
Pioneer Woman’s Grave and Trail
Photo/USFS
Quick Facts
Location:
Forest Road 3531/Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway, near Government Camp, Oregon
Significance:
Historic emigrant gravesite and hikable remnants of the Barlow Road
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
2 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Trailhead
Engineers constructing the Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway found this forgotten trailside grave, hidden by vegetation, in 1924. An interpretive exhibit tells the story and a boulder with a plaque commemorates the unknown woman who died near here, just 50 miles from the Willamette Valley.
The “grave trail” down from Barlow Pass approaches from the opposite side of the road. A short walk into the forest along the trail leads to a place where traces of the original stage and immigrant wagon road divert around a large tree, marked by a small wooden sign bolted to the tree.
Return to the road, walk over the culvert, and then turn right onto a path that leads about 65 feet (20 m) into the woods. The wheels of countless wagons and stagecoaches gouged deep, trough-like swales and cuts in the banks where they crossed the stream. Look for two older crossing points that have caved in and one closer to the road that remains in excellent condition. More historic road remnants can be found a short distance farther into the forest. While exploring, please be very careful not to disturb this fragile site: stay off the edges of the old road features, especially the cuts and swales.
Site Information
Location (Forest Road 3531/Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway, near Government Camp, Oregon)
On Forest Road 3531/Old Mt. Hood Loop Highway, drive 0.3 mile to the grave site, and park at the pullout. A federal pass or day-use permit is not required for the visit. No amenities at this location. Capacity for 5+ small vehicles.