A hike to the top of Bald Butte is a great choice for an early season hike in the Upper Hood River Valley! A vibrant show of Mt Hood National Forest wildflowers, Lupine, Balsam Root, Indian Paintbrush will cover the hillside from mid-April through June. The views from the Butte are amazing, overlooking the Hood River Valley and spectacular views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Adams, Mt. St.Helens, and Mt. Rainier. Vegetation varies between stands of oak on the lower hillside with fir and pine at the higher elevations and on the north facing slopes
Difficulty – Moderate/Strenuous
Trail ascends Oak Ridge via a series of switchbacks passing through open, grassy slopes and stands of Oregon White Oak. After the first mile, trail enters mixed oak and fir and eventually the oak is left behind. Near the top of the ridge the Oak Ridge Trail connects with the Surveyor’s Ridge Trail. Hike 1.8 miles North to the top of Bald Butte for the unsurpassed views of the Valley below and the 4 volcanic peaks of the Oregon and Washington Cascades.
For the very fit and adventurous mountain bikers this trail can be combined with the Surveyor’s Ridge Trail, #688 back and down the Dog River Trail #675, a total of about 25 miles to and from the Old Parkdale Inn.
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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.