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Mount Hood
Oregon
Visit Mount Hood
Mount Hood, a towering stratovolcano located about 50 miles east of Portland, Oregon, stands as a majestic beacon in the Pacific Northwest. At 11,249 feet, it is the highest point in Oregon and a prominent landmark visible from many parts of the Portland metropolitan area. The mountain is not only a visual spectacle but also a hub of recreational activities that attract visitors throughout the year. Its slopes are home to several ski resorts, the most famous being Timberline Lodge, which boasts the longest ski season in North America, often extending into summer.
For those who prefer warmer weather pursuits, Mount Hood offers a plethora of hiking trails that range from easy walks through lush old-growth forests to challenging climbs up rocky ridges. The Timberline Trail, which encircles the entire mountain at roughly 6,000 feet elevation, offers a particularly stunning multi-day hike that showcases waterfalls, wildflower meadows, and glacier views. Additionally, the mountain's lower slopes are dotted with campgrounds and picnic areas, making it a perfect spot for a family outing or a serene retreat into nature.
Beyond its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Mount Hood also holds historical significance. Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landicraft, was constructed during the Great Depression through the Works Progress Administration. The lodge is renowned for its rustic architecture and uniquely crafted interior, featuring works by local artisans. It's not just a base for skiers but a destination in itself, with cozy fireplaces, a historic bar, and dining areas that offer views across the mountain's snowy expanses.
Whether you're an avid skier, a seasoned hiker, or simply someone who appreciates stunning landscapes, Mount Hood provides a diverse range of attractions. Its natural beauty is complemented by its rich history and the vibrant communities that surround it, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through the Pacific Northwest.
Mount Hood Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
21°F
31°F
11
February
23°F
31°F
12
March
23°F
32°F
12
April
32°F
32°F
12
May
32°F
42°F
12
June
42°F
51°F
12
July
42°F
71°F
11
August
42°F
71°F
12
September
32°F
57°F
11
October
32°F
51°F
15
November
27°F
32°F
11
December
25°F
32°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Mount Hood
Nickname:
Mount Shasta
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
Pacific Time Zone
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type B
Annual Visitors:
4 million
Primary Export:
Apples
Busiest Travel Months:
July, August, December
Quietest Travel Months:
November, May, October
Find your Next Adventure in Mount Hood
Explore Mount Hood
Iconic Landmarks
Mount Hood's Peak
- Mount Hood is Oregon's highest peak, standing at 11,249 feet (3,429 meters).
Climbing Popularity
- It is considered one of the most climbed glaciated peaks in the world.
Glaciers and Snowfields
- The mountain is home to 12 named glaciers and snowfields.
Volcanic Activity
- Mount Hood is a potentially active stratovolcano, last erupting in the 1790s.
Timberline Lodge
- The Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood was used for exterior shots in the classic film "The Shining."
Proximity to Portland
- It is located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Portland, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.
Cultural Experiences
Timberline Lodge Historic Tour
- Explore the iconic Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark, and learn about its unique architecture and history through guided tours.
Hood River County Fruit Loop
- Drive through this scenic 35-mile loop that winds through orchards, vineyards, and farms, offering opportunities to taste and purchase local produce and wines.
Mount Hood Cultural Center and Museum
- Discover the rich history of Mount Hood, including its early exploration, pioneer settlers, and the development of ski culture in the region.
Government Camp Village
- Stroll through this charming alpine village that serves as a base for Mount Hood activities and features quaint shops, local dining, and historical exhibits.
Native American Heritage
- Participate in cultural events and educational programs that celebrate and teach the traditions and practices of the Native American tribes associated with the Mount Hood area.
Mount Hood Jazz Festival
- Enjoy this annual event held in Government Camp, which showcases jazz performances by renowned musicians in a picturesque mountain setting.
Outdoor Adventures
Timberline Trail
- Circumnavigate Mount Hood on this 41-mile loop trail that offers stunning views and diverse landscapes.
Mount Hood Meadows
- Hit the slopes at this popular ski resort, which offers a variety of runs and panoramic mountain views in winter.
Tamanawas Falls Trail
- A scenic 3.4-mile hike that leads to a breathtaking 100-foot waterfall cascading over a basalt cliff.
Mirror Lake Trail
- This family-friendly 4.4-mile round trip hike offers a picturesque lake view with Mount Hood reflecting in the water.
Hood River Fruit Loop
- Drive or cycle through this 35-mile scenic loop, sampling local produce, wines, and ciders from the numerous farms and vineyards.
Trillium Lake
- Ideal for kayaking, fishing, and swimming, this lake provides a perfect setting with a spectacular view of Mount Hood.
Off the Beaten Path
Tamanawas Falls Trail
- This scenic trail leads to a stunning 150-foot curtain of water that cascades over a basalt cliff surrounded by lush forest.
Lost Lake
- Offering a quieter alternative to more crowded spots, Lost Lake provides breathtaking views of Mount Hood and excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and camping.
Cooper Spur
- Located on the northeast side of Mount Hood, Cooper Spur offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of the mountain summit and the surrounding wilderness.
Cloud Cap Inn
- Accessible via a rugged drive, this historic inn offers a unique vantage point of Mount Hood and serves as a base for various hiking trails.
Lookout Mountain
- This lesser-known hike provides panoramic views of Mount Hood and the Columbia River Gorge, ideal for photographers and nature lovers.
Elk Meadows
- With its wildflower-filled meadows in the spring and summer and peaceful snow-covered landscapes in the winter, Elk Meadows is a year-round destination for solitude and natural beauty.
Mount Hood Fun Facts
- Mount Hood is Oregon's highest peak, standing at 11,249 feet (3,429 meters).
- It is considered one of the most climbed glaciated peaks in the world.
- The mountain is home to 12 named glaciers and snowfields.
- Mount Hood is a potentially active stratovolcano, last erupting in the 1790s.
- The Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood was used for exterior shots in the classic film "The Shining."
- It is located about 50 miles (80 kilometers) east of Portland, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities.
- Mount Hood�s forests are known for their diverse ecosystems, including old-growth forests and alpine meadows.
- The mountain offers year-round skiing and snowboarding, one of the few places in North America where this is possible.
- The historic Mount Hood Scenic Loop is a 146-mile drive that offers stunning views of the mountain, orchards, and the Columbia River Gorge.
- Native American tribes have considered Mount Hood a sacred site for thousands of years, and it features prominently in many of their legends and traditions.
Featured Picture Gallery
Sitting at 11,250 Feet, Mount Hood is Oregon's Tallest Mountain
Skiing is a Popular Attraction on Mount Hood
Mount Hood is an Active Stratovolcano
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