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| - Only 4 stars due to the popularity -- it gets crowded and that can take away from the experience.
I love the Usery Mountain park and have logged many miles hiking and running the trails out there, both with my family and solo. This is THE trail people come to visit when they come from out of town, have visitors, or just want a short hike to enjoy the day.
The trail is roughly 3 miles out and back, terminating at the "cave," which is more of a cutout in the side of the mountain. In the summer, you get shade and often even a little breeze. After hiking a mile and a half uphill in 90-100 degree, full-sun heat, that is a blessing! Take a snack to eat at the top, especially if you're taking children.
As I said before, this is probably the most popular trail and at the park, so it gets CROWDED during peak times: weekends and holidays are especially full. Parking can be a challenge, so be prepared for a walk to the trailhead. There's a bathroom and a drinking fountain at the trailhead, so that's nice.
There are no side trails -- the Pass Mountain trail intersects at the trailhead, but that's it -- and this is one of the few trails in the park that only allows pedestrians (no horses or bikes). Take plenty of water, wear appropriate shoes, don't litter, and remember that the uphill hiker has the right of way. Be courteous and friendly... Everyone is out there to have fun!
If you want some variety, try the Blevins Trail, too ... A much less crowded 3-mile loop trail with virtually unlimited possibilities via side trails.
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