Enjoy 6 wonderful end of summer hikes and around the Mt Hood National Forest before the snows fall near the Hood River Valley. Although, some are ideal for snowshoeing or cross county, too. Travel Oregon launched the successful 7 Wonders of Oregon campaign. A campaign to get visitors and locals alike out exploring our glorious state. We are so fortunate here at the Old Parkdale Inn Bed and Breakfast to be flanked by Two of the Seven Wonders: Mt Hood and the Columbia River Gorge:
Here are our Six Favorite Hikes on and around Mt Hood:
Tamanawas Falls: A spectacular waterfall in the Mt Hood National Forest. The Hike is an easy 4 mile out/back along Cold Spring Creek. A path less traveled would be the Tamanawas Loop trail starting at the Polallie trailhead. Both less than 9 miles from our door. (snowshoe)
Bald Butte: I, for one, like a reward if I’m going to hike 4 miles, +/-, up. And a reward you’ll get. On a clear day the views from Bald Butte are everything: Mt Hood, the Hood River Valley, Mt Adams, Mt Rainier, and Mt St Helens.Turn around for views of the vast expanse of wheat fields to the east of the Cascades. In the spring the wildflowers are beautiful. Skip the long hike and drive to a different trailhead where a short but steep .75 miles will take you to the top
Tilly Jane and the Cooper Spur Trail: Alpine hikes with North Face views. Cooper Spur is the highest trail hike on Mt Hood, 8514′. Enjoy Alpine wildflowers, views of Eastern Oregon, the Elliot Glacier, the Hood River Valley and north into Washington (snowshoe or XC)
Lookout Mountain: Overlooks every Cascade Peak from Three Sisters to Mt Rainier and a rare glimpse of the Columbia Plateau. Abundant spring wildflowers in the surrounding Meadows.
Hood River Meadows Loop: Lush meadows, mountain views and waterfalls (snowshoe or XC)
Lost Lake: Climb to the peak of Lost Lake Butte for views of Mt Hood or take the 3.2 mile trail around the lake
Only six? Oh no, there are so many more. Maybe another post on another day.
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We’re your home base for exploring and enjoying the Hood River Valley and beyond. After a full day, you’ll love the peace and tranquility of the Old Parkdale Inn. Relax in the gardens, perhaps with your favorite beverage, by the bonfire, roast some s’mores, weather permitting of course.
What’s to do
The Hood River Fruit Loop is located in the beautiful Hood River Valley at the foot of majestic Mt. Hood offering you a variety of wines, fruits, vegetables, flowers, ciders, and food. Many outdoor adventures, such as kayaking, windsurfing, skiing, snow boarding, and hiking, await. Mt. Hood Meadows, Cooper Spur Mountain Resort, and Timberline Ski areas are only a short drive away, as is the Columbia River Gorge and Mt. Hood National Forest where trails and wildlife abound.