The most difficult descent on the 2200 mile Oregon Trail, Laurel Hill's 60% slope required lowering rough-locked wagons by rope, held back by dragging trees. Chutes, ruts, rope burns visible. This Barlow Road routing of the Oregon Trail began use in 1845. Short access trail (#795a) from nearby trailhead on Highway 26. The 1924 scenic Mt. Hood Loop Road, one of the first paved roads of its length and type in the Northwest, is visible switchbacking up Laurel Hill's slope to the east and here, crossing the Laurel Hill chutes at right angles.
