Physical Preparation

Everyone attending trek will need to prepare themselves physically so they can gain the most spiritually from our trek experience. 

In addition to walking and pulling a handcart for long distances, these sites are more than 3,000 feet in elevation higher than the Portland area.  We will also likely contend with heat during the day, cool temperatures at night, and rough, rocky terrain all the way.  None of it is flat.

The best way to prepare yourself for the physical exertion of trek is to walk.  A lot. Seriously, a lot.  Begin early, break in those shoes, and take a hike (or many hikes). 

Preparation Hike Recommendations

We are blessed to live in an area with numerous beautiful places to hike.  Below are some recommendations should you want to explore while preparing yourself physically for trek. You can also plan ward youth and family activities around these hikes.

Forest Park: With 5,000 forested acres; Forest Park has 60 miles of trails and at least 30 entry points that stretch from Burnside on the south to Newberry Road on the north.  Two suggestions for nearby trails:

Council Crest: 3.3 miles, moderate    

4 T Trail: train, trail, tram, trolley, and includes 2.5 miles of walking/hiking

Banks-Vernonia State Trail:  21 miles of paved trail between two Oregon towns, can be accessed at 6 points--Vernonia, Beaver Creek, Tophill, Buxton, Manning and Banks.

Saddle Mountain: towards beach off of Hwy 26, 5.2 miles, moderate

Wildwood Trail:

  • Washington Park to the Pittock Mansion - 7 mile loop
  • Washington Park to the Hoyt Arboretum.- 3.6 mile loop

Gorge: