Must-See Historic Sites Along Oregon’s Barlow Road Route

Long before highways and digital maps, a dusty trail led thousands of pioneers west in search of a new beginning. Today, a trip along the historic Barlow Road on Oregon’s Mt. Hood — the final overland stretch of the Oregon Trail — is one of the most memorable ways to connect with Oregon’s past and soak in the natural beauty of Mt. Hood Territory.

In 1846, when Sam Barlow and Philip Foster opened the toll road, it transformed pioneer travel. Prior to the Barlow Road, settlers had to navigate the Columbia River’s dangerous rapids to reach the Willamette Valley. The road offered an overland option of crossing the Cascade Mountains and reaching the fertile land many dreamed of calling home.

Today you can still follow the Barlow Road, just with fewer oxen on it.

Before lacing up your hiking boots and stepping onto the historic Barlow Road, fuel your adventure and connect with the spirit of the pioneers. Start your day with an order of famous huckleberry pancakes at the Huckleberry Inn in Government Camp. Huckleberries can be found all over Mt. Hood, and these pancakes are sure to help start your day off with a smile. Then, begin your hiking adventure at the nearby Pioneer Woman’s Grave Trailhead. The trail is short, but powerful — it leads to a single grave site and several historical markers that honor the grit and sacrifice of those early travelers.

Farther down the Barlow Road lies Summit Meadow, once a vital rest stop for weary pioneers and their livestock. It was one of the few open areas where oxen could graze and families could catch their breath before the final leg of their trek. If you explore the area today, you’ll find traces of the past: the stone footings of the old Summit House toll station, a simple picket fence surrounding a pioneer cemetery and a plaque marking the grave of “Baby Morgan.” Summit Meadow also offers a wonderful view of Mt. Hood.

For a glimpse into the difficulty of the Barlow Road, head to Laurel Hill between mileposts 50 and 51 on Highway 26. A short trail leads to the infamous “chute,” where pioneers used ropes and pulleys to lower wagons down steep, dangerous slopes. It’s hard to imagine the courage it took to help a fully loaded wagon descend this hill – and you can even still see rope marks in the trees today.

Bring a picnic and stop at the replica West Barlow Tollgate between mileposts 44 and 45. The grassy area sits beside the Zigzag River and is perfect for lunch while being surrounded by history.

As you follow the Barlow Road west, the route winds through Sandy and veers south toward Eagle Creek, where Philip Foster Farm still tells the story of Oregon Trail life. Stop at Jonsrud Viewpoint in Sandy for one of the most iconic views of Mt. Hood and a rugged ridge once called the “Devil’s Backbone.” Nearby, Tollgate Inn Bakery offers a great option for food and a dose of Oregon Trail nostalgia, complete with memorabilia from the pioneer era.

The modern-day Barlow Road route offers more than just hiking options. There are great museums and visitor centers to help you dive deeper into the history of the region.

The Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum in Government Camp is a free-admission museum that offers a fascinating look at the area’s natural and cultural history — including exhibits on early pioneer travel, mountain climbing, the history of skiing and the construction of nearby Timberline Lodge. The museum features a dedicated display on the Oregon Trail and Barlow Road, offering excellent interpretation and context that helps bring the pioneer journey over Mt. Hood to life.

Philip Foster’s original farmhouse and barn still stand in Eagle Creek, surrounded by lovingly built replicas of the store, cabin, school house and a blacksmith shop. The site operates as a living history museum, where families can grind corn, build cabins with oversized Lincoln Logs, try their hand at traditional tools, and explore the grounds through an Alexa-guided tour — a modern tool telling timeless stories. Throughout the year, costumed interpreters and seasonal events bring history to life, making the Philip Foster Farm a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience pioneer life in Oregon’s Mt. Hood Territory.

The End of the Oregon Trail Interpretive & Visitor Information Center in Oregon City marks the official end of the Oregon Trail and offers an immersive look at the pioneer experience. Visitors can explore hands-on exhibits, pack their own covered wagons and learn about the trials and triumphs of the pioneers. A highlight of the experience includes two engaging films: “Oregon’s First People,” created in partnership with the Grand Ronde Tribe, sheds light on the indigenous peoples that lived here for centuries prior. And “Barlow Road,” a film that details the treacherous journey on the Oregon Trail. Tour the outdoor "Oregon Trail Experience" trail with replica landmarks, such as Independence Rock and while outside, also visit the heritage garden featuring vegetables, herbs, flowers and fruits grown by the Oregon pioneers in the 1860s.

Along the Barlow Road route there are many lodging options in beautiful settings. You’re sure to find the perfect location for your overnight stay.

• Vacation rentals with saunas: These cozy cabins and mountain lodges offer saunas – which is the perfect way to unwind after your Oregon Trail adventure.
• Campgrounds: In Mt. Hood National Forest there are a variety of campgrounds that will make you feel just like the pioneers. Bring your camping gear and sleep under the stars.
• Mt. Hood Oregon Resort: This resort offers a relaxing retreat with cozy accommodations, a scenic golf course, a year-round heated pool, full-service spa and easy access to the region’s outdoor adventures.
• Hotels and inns: Hotels and inns on Mt. Hood offer everything from rustic mountain charm to modern comforts, providing the perfect basecamp close to restaurants and attractions.