Mount Hood Exploration Overview:
Mount Hood’s steep, snow-covered slopes dominate the landscape for miles around. Located at the north end of the Oregon Cascades, just east of Portland, it is part of Mount Hood National Forest. At the periphery of that national forest are numerous state parks and wilderness areas. Mountain snow melt creates scenic creeks and waterfalls, running into major rivers that include the Sandy, Clackamas, Hood, and Salmon Rivers.
Here are recommendations for things to do and places to explore in and around Oregon’s magnificent Mount Hood.
Scenic Driving Tours Around Mount Hood
A scenic drive to or around the mountain is a fun and popular way to enjoy Mount Hood’s majestic beauty. Here are popular routes recognized for their scenery.
Mt. Hood Scenic Byway
This official National Scenic Byway stretches 105 miles from Troutdale, near Portland, along US Highway 26, meeting up with State Highway 35 south of the mountain. Travelers can turn this scenic drive into a loop by following Interstate 84 from Hood River back to Troutdale, taking in the views from the south side of the Columbia River. For even more beautiful views, take a detour off the Interstate to follow the Historic Columbia River Highway, which features several gorgeous waterfalls and viewpoints.
North Section of the West Cascades Scenic Byway
This National Scenic Byway runs north-south along the west side of the Cascades range from Estacada to Oakridge, following the Clackamas River much of the way.
Explore Timberline Lodge
Address: 27500 E Timberline Road, Government Camp, OR 97028, USA
Phone: +1 503-272-3311
Whether or not you are fortunate enough to stay overnight at the historic Timberline Lodge, you should definitely stop and explore this Northwest gem. Built during the 1930s as a Works Progress Administration project, this grand mountain lodge was constructed from local materials and furnished with the handiwork of talented local artists and craftspeople. Be sure to check out the lobby, which features history exhibits, amazing stone, iron, and woodwork, and a grand hexagonal fireplace. Timberline Lodge was acknowledged as a National Historic Landmark in 1977.
Visitor amenities at Timberline Lodge include gift shops, a gear shop, and fine and casual dining. It serves as a year-round ski and mountain resort, offering numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation. Regardless of the season, you can take the Magic Mile Sky Ride up to the 7,000-level, savoring Oregon mountain scenery the whole way.
Skiing and Snow Sports on Mount Hood
Address: 87000 US-26, Government Camp, OR 97028, USA
Phone: +1 503-715-2170
Mount Hood is famous for its year-round snow cover, offering downhill skiing in both winter and summer. Major ski areas in Mount Hood National Forest include:
Add to that a variety of winter recreation opportunities including snowmobiling, sledding, tubing, and more. These mountain resorts provide fun in summer too, offering hiking, mountain biking, and a long list of outdoor adventure opportunities.
Hiking in Mount Hood National Forest
With over 1000 miles of hiking trails, the opportunities are almost endless. It is advisable to stop first at a ranger station to obtain up-to-the-minute information on trail and road conditions, including expert trail advice and maps. A stop at Government Camp will provide access to several trails.
Here is a small sample of Mount Hood’s hiking opportunities:
- Ramona Falls Trail
One of the more popular day hikes, this 7-mile round-trip trail provides beautiful views of the Sandy River, Mount Hood, and stunning waterfalls. - Glade Trail
This trail runs from Timberline Lodge down to Government Camp, suitable for hikers in the summer and for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in the winter. - Timberline National Historic Trail
Constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the 1930s, this 36.6-mile trail circles Mount Hood, passing through a variety of scenic and challenging terrain. - Tamanawas Falls Trail
Accessed off of Highway 35, this 1-mile trail follows Cold Spring Creek through forest to the 100-foot-high falls.
Cascade Streamwatch at the Wildwood Recreation Site
Address: 65670 US-26, Welches, OR 97067, USA
Phone: +1 503-622-3696
The Cascade Streamwatch nature trail is a family-friendly adventure and an ideal place to introduce anyone to the wonder of hiking and outdoor exploration. This nature trail offers improved paths through the forest, complete with interpretive signs and an underwater stream-viewing window where you can learn about the salmon lifecycle and local ecosystem. It is located within the BLM-operated Wildwood Recreation Site, featuring picnicking, wildlife watching, playgrounds, sports fields, and additional hiking trails.
Mount Hood Cultural Center & Museum
Address: 88900 Government Camp Loop, Government Camp, OR 97028-0120, USA
Phone: +1 503-272-3301
Situated in Government Camp along Highway 26, Mount Hood Cultural Center & Museum showcases all aspects of the mountain’s colorful history. Their exhibits cover the development of skiing and ski facilities, early exploration, and National Forest Service activities complemented by artifacts. One gallery focuses on Mount Hood’s natural history, including a model of this active volcano, while artworks are frequently exhibited from local artists.
Mount Hood Railroad
Address: 110 Railroad Street, Hood River, OR 97031, USA
Phone: +1 541-387-4000
The Mount Hood Railroad, departing from Hood River, provides a fun way to experience the beauty of both Mount Hood and the fertile Hood River Valley. The scenic ride runs from Hood River to Parkdale and back, with various themed trips offered throughout the year.
