Mount Hood is a dormant volcano topped with glaciers, situated 70 miles to the east of Portland, OR. Featuring many alpine lakes, countless ski routes, and the magnificent Timberline Lodge from the 1930s, this is a paradise for outdoor activities that is easily reachable.
Numerous trails can be discovered throughout Mount Hood National Forest, which covers over 1,000,000 acres. From simple nature strolls to extended backcountry treks, hiking stands out as one of the main draws in this area.
How to Reach Mount Hood National Forest
Location: Zigzag Ranger District Headquarters 70220 E. Highway 26, Zigzag, OR 97049.
Charge: Admission fee.
Extra charges might be linked to activities in the park.
Trillium Lake Trail Loop
This well-known trail offers breathtaking vistas of the mountain, chances for bird watching, and gentle terrain to ensure enjoyment for all. This trail features a mix of compacted rock surfaces and boardwalk, making it suitable for families with strollers and individuals with mobility challenges.
Distance: 1.9 miles.
Intensity: Simple.
Old Salmon River Path
This out-and-back path guides hikers alongside the flowing Salmon River amid a remarkable ancient forest. Even though it is near the road, the river's sound and thick foliage give hikers the impression of being deep within the woods.
Distance: 2.7 miles.
Intensity: Simple.
Tamanawas Falls Path
Positioned on the eastern part of Mount Hood, this path runs alongside Cold Spring Creek. Guests on a warm summer day can enjoy the cool water. The path concludes at the stunning Tamanawas Falls, which spans 40 feet in width and rises 100 feet in height. Throughout the path, the route is sheltered by majestic cedars and Douglas fir trees.
Distance: 3.4 miles.
Strength: Average.
Mirror Lake Circuit Trail
Mirror Lake is categorized as a glacial cirque lake. The lake is bordered by steep slopes to the south and southwest, forming the headwall of the glacier cirque. Stunning vistas of Mount Hood attract numerous hikers to this trail. The path is broad and ascends 460 feet at a steady rate initially, then it constricts and levels out at the lake. You can trek past the lake to Tom-Dick, and Harry Ridge, increasing the challenge of the hike.
Distance: 4.2 miles.
Intensity: Average.
Butte Trail at Lost Lake
At the peak of Lost Lake Butte, hikers can see an incredible panoramic view of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, Mount Jefferson, and Mount Hood simultaneously. The path begins at the Lost Lake Campground and ascends .
Length: 3.7 miles.
Intensity: Moderate.
Recreational Opportunities in Mount Hood National Forest
Interpretive Centers and Museums
To discover the trees and various plant species on the mountain, visit the interpretive area located at the Timberline Lodge and Ski Area. This National Historic Landmark attracts 2 million visitors annually. It's also an excellent place to discover the lives of those who have inhabited the shadow of Mount Hood for centuries.
If you seek to learn more about Mount Hood's history, then explore the Mt. Hood Culture Center and Museum. This World Heritage Ski Museum is essential for any snow sports lover due to its diverse exhibits. Displays feature a biography of the mountain, a collection of pioneering adventurers, and items showcasing the development of skiing.
Recreation
Athletics and Events Symbol
Another favored spot for families during both winter and summer is Mount Hood Ski Bowl. Summer activities feature an alpine slide, a mountain biking park, the sky chair, zipline excursions, bungee jumping, and go-kart racing. When snow blankets the ground, skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobiling dominate the scene. Charges are linked to every activity.
Fishing
Mount Hood National Forest is a popular spot for anglers due to its many lakes and streams. For fishing in rivers and streams, go to Lost Creek or Salmon River. Both are excellent for catching rainbow trout.
Observing the Stars
For excellent nighttime stargazing, make your way to the High Rocks region, located close to Linney Creek to the southwest of the mountain. Although an off-road vehicle is necessary to reach this viewpoint, it is an ideal location for observing shooting stars and constellations.
MOUNT HOOD NATIONAL FOREST - FINDING HEAVEN in OREGON
Ian and Ana
Mount Hood National Forest is a year-round location that serves skiers and snowboarders during the winter and hikers in the summer. With numerous campgrounds accessible, an RV journey is an excellent method to discover this national forest. Dear Lykkers, if you don't have an RV, you can rent one in a nearby city to the national forest. Happy Travel!
