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Mount Hood National Forest Hiking Trails

Trillium Lake Loop Trail

This popular trail provides inspiring views of the mountain, bird watching opportunities, and easy terrain to make it fun for everyone. With a combination of compacted rock surface and boardwalk, this trail is a good choice for families with strollers or people with mobility issues.

Length: 1.9 miles

Intensity: Easy
Old Salmon River Trail

This out-and-back trail takes hikers along the rushing Salmon River through an impressive old-growth forest. Although it stays close to the road, the sound of the river and the dense vegetation make hikers feel like they are deep in the forest.

Length: 2.7 miles

Intensity: Easy
Tamanawas Falls Trail

Located on Mount Hood's eastern slope, this trail parallels Cold Spring Creek. Visitors on a hot summer day can take advantage of the refreshing water. The trail ends at impressive Tamanawas Falls, which is 40 feet wide and 100 feet high. Along the way, the trail is shaded by towering cedars and Douglas fir.

Length: 3.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Mirror Lake Loop Trail

Mirror Lake is classified as a glacial cirque lake. There are steep slopes to the south and southwest of the lake, creating the glacier cirque headwall. Gorgeous views of Mount Hood make this a popular hike with many visitors. The trail is wide and gains 460 feet at a moderate pace in the beginning, then it narrows and flattens at the lake. It's possible to hike beyond the lake to Tom, Dick, and Harry Ridge, which adds to the difficulty of the trek.

Length: 4.2 miles

Intensity: Moderate
Lost Lake Butte Trail

From the summit of Lost Lake Butte, hikers get a spectacular view of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, Mount Rainier, Mount Jefferson, and Mount Hood all at once. The trail starts in the Lost Lake Campground and climbs moderately through heavy forest. A steep series of switchbacks ascend the last three-quarters of a mile to the summit of the ridge.

Length: 3.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Activities in Mount Hood National Forest

Interpretive Sites and Museums

If you want to learn about the trees and other plant life on the mountain, head to the interpretive site at the Timberline Lodge and Ski Area. This National Historic Landmark is visited by 2 million people each year. It's also a great spot to learn about the people who have lived in Mount Hood's shadow for centuries.

If you want to know more about the history of Mount Hood, then visit the Mt. Hood Cultural Center & Museum. This World Heritage Ski Museum is a must-see for any snow-sport enthusiast with its varied collections. Exhibits include a biography of the mountain, a gallery of early trailblazers, and artifacts that depict the evolution of skiing.

Sports and Activities

Another popular destination with families in the winter and summer is Mount Hood SkiBowl. Summer attractions include an alpine slide, mountain bike park, the sky chair, zipline tours, bungee jumping, and go-karts. Skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and snowmobiling take over when snow covers the ground. Fees are associated with all activities.

Fishing

With its numerous lakes and streams, Mount Hood National Forest is a favorite destination with anglers. For river and stream fishing, head to Lost Creek or Salmon River. They are both great for catching rainbow trout.

Stargazing

For great stargazing at night, head to the High Rocks area, which is near Linney Creek southwest of the mountain. While you'll need an off-road vehicle to get to this viewpoint, it's a perfect spot to see shooting stars and constellations.

How to get to Mount Hood National Forest

Address: Zigzag Ranger District Headquarters 70220 E. Highway 26, Zigzag, OR 97049

Fee: Entry fee

Additional fees may be associated with activities within the park.

Mount Hood National Forest is a four-season destination that caters to skiers and snowboarders in the winter and hikers in the summer. With dozens of campgrounds available, an RV trip is a great way to explore this national forest. If you do not own an RV, you can rent one via RVshare in a city close to the national forest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mount Hood National Forest

Is Mount Hood National Forest open all year round?

Yes, Mount Hood National Forest is open year-round. In summer, visitors can go hiking and mountain biking, and in winter the forest is a popular spot for snow sports like cross-country and downhill skiing.

What type of wildlife lives in Mount Hood National Forest?

Mount Hood National Forest is home to wildlife including northern spotted owls, mountain lions, elk, and there have even been sightings of wolves. A variety of birds, fish, and other small animals also live in the forest.

Does Mount Hood National Forest offer free camping sites?

Yes, Mount Hood National Forest offers free camping sites. Dispersed camping is allowed throughout the forest and is free. Campers need to bring all of their own supplies, and must leave no trace when they pack up camp.

Is there a limit to how long you can camp in Mount Hood National Forest?

Yes, there is a limit to how long you can camp in Mount Hood National Forest. You may camp for up to 14 consecutive days in the forest before you need to move your campsite. Also, be sure you know about any other camping-related rules, fire bans, and other restrictions before planning to camp in the forest.

Do you need a permit to fish or hunt in Mount Hood National Forest?

Yes, you need a permit to hunt in Mount Hood National Forest. If you are 18 or older, you also need a fishing license to fish in the forest.

Mount Hood National Forest Guide

RV Rentals Near Mount Hood National Forest

Mount Hood National Forest Hiking Trails

Trillium Lake Loop Trail

Old Salmon River Trail

Tamanawas Falls Trail

Mirror Lake Loop Trail

Lost Lake Butte Trail