Dixon Mountain

Dixon Mountain is an out-and-back spur off Skate Creek. Roughly one hundred feet from the start of the road, the first of several campsites appears at the confluence of Dixon Creek and Skate Creek. With cool water access and plenty of shade, it’s an inviting spot for summer camping or a quick rest stop.

As the route climbs, small humps begin to appear along the roadway, likely remnants of old logging yarder positions. Attentive visitors may also notice straight-line gaps through the forest canopy—evidence of historic highlines once used to transport timber across the ravine.

The road itself remains smooth and well-graded, with a compacted rock surface that stays accessible up to about mile 2.9. Here, a campsite offers wide views across the ravine and southwest toward the surrounding ridges. From around mile 3.2, the trail shifts from an easy drive to a more difficult climb with deep erosion ruts. At a fork, Dixon Mountain Road veers to the right, leading to additional viewpoints and the end of the road at a large washout and a missing section of roadway.

Access to this area depends on the seasonal status of Skate Creek Road (Forest Road 52), which is typically closed from December through May due to snow and road conditions. For updated information on closures and current access, contact the U.S. Forest Service, Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

🔗 Forest Road 52 – Skate Creek Road Information