Francois Matthes

Dogs No Dogs

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This is an isolated former logging road that is being slowly reclaimed by nature. Starting from its junction with the Walhalla Glades Trail, the Francois Matthes Trail heads southwest over the plateau. It descends steadily on a broad ridge through scattered pine trees and a wildfire area.

Continue straight through the intersection with the Walhalla Connector and cross a few open meadows. After a couple of slightly steeper downhill sections, you'll arrive at the rim for a unique perspective view of Zoroaster Temple and Wotans Throne that is partly obscured by brush. You can also see Cheyava Falls and the Clear Creek drainage. Retrace your steps back to the parking area.

Historical factoid: This trail is named after Francois E. Matthes a geologist and expert topographical mapper responsible for creating maps of many remote areas of the west. He helped advance theories about glacial geology and his maps helped a great deal of US lands become protected as National Parks.

Pine, manzanita and aspen.