Mt. Hood

The basics

Mt. Hood offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. There are more than 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers) of hiking trails in Mt. Hood National Forest, with options ranging from beginner to expert. 

One of the most famous attractions at Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark that's open throughout the year. The building's exterior was used as the notorious hotel in the 1980 film The Shining.

Mt. Hood tours typically include visits to other attractions in the area, from the Columbia River Gorge—known for its waterfalls and trails—to the Hood River Valley, a popular wine-tasting region with great views of Mount Hood.

Things to know before you go

• Mt. Hood is a good pick for outdoorsy travelers. 

• Pack water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.

• The Mt. Hood National Forest extends south from the Columbia River Gorge across more than 60 miles (97 kilometers) to Olallie Scenic Area—a high lake basin under the slopes of Mt. Jefferson.

• There are six ski areas on Mt. Hood, one of which (Timberline Lodge) has a year-round lift service.

How to get there

Mt. Hood is about 50 miles (81 kilometers) east of downtown Portland. Day trips that include transportation are a great option for travelers who don't have rental cars (or don't want to drive in the snow). The journey from Portland to Government Camp takes around 75 minutes.

When to Get There

There's plenty to do in Mt. Hood and the surrounding Mount Hood National Forest, depending on the season. Skiing and snowboarding are usually available from late fall through spring, with fewer crowds Monday through Friday. April through mid-June is generally the safest period to ascend Mt. Hood, as there are fewer chances of avalanches or rockfalls. The historic Columbia River and Hood River are great places to swim, hike, and windsurf in summer.

Summiting Mt. Hood

Mt. Hood is the second-most climbed mountain in the world, with over 10,000 people summiting the peak each year. This adventure is not for the faint of heart (or the poorly prepared). Even the easiest climb from Timberline Lodge is still very technical and requires crampons, ice axes, ropes, and climbing gear. The climb generally takes 8–10 hours round-trip.

Ways to explore

Mt. Hood is a year-round playground for outdoor lovers. In the summer, hike to waterfalls and viewpoints along Mt. Hood National Forest’s roughly 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) of trails. Late fall to early spring brings opportunities to ski, snowboard, and snowshoe in designated Sno-Parks. Spring is generally the safest period to ascend Mt. Hood’s 11,239-foot (3,426 meters) summit, but even seasoned mountaineers are safest with a guide.

Mt. Hood tours typically include visits to other area attractions, from the Columbia River Gorge—known for its waterfalls—to the Hood River Valley, a wine-tasting region with great views.

Accessibility

There are many wheelchair-accessible ways to visit Mt. Hood, from sightseeing road trips to accessible nature trails.

Age limits

Some ski resorts require children to be 3 or 4 to participate in skiing and lessons. Most offer day care services.

What to pack

Water, sunscreen, small backpack, and layers—including rain gear in the spring and fall

What to wear

Warm layers and snow goggles in the winter, closed-toe shoes for hiking

Not allowed

Smoking or drinking in the national forest, parking without a Northwest Forest Pass in summer or Sno-Park permit where indicated in winter

Amenities

Restrooms at most trailheads, Wi-Fi in ski lodges; note that cell service may be limited on parts of the mountain.

Address

Mt. Hood is about 50 miles (81 kilometers) east of downtown Portland. Day trips that include transportation are a great option if you don't have a rental car (or don't want to drive in the snow).

Driving

Depending on where you’re going on the mountain, your drive could take anywhere from 55 to 80 minutes. Be sure to check weather and traffic conditions when planning your route.

Public transportation

The Mt. Hood Express runs daily between the town of Sandy and Timberline Lodge. Alternatively, guided tours that include transportation can help you cut down on logistics and enjoy the ride.

Best times to visit

Go early to guarantee a parking spot and beat the crowds to the trails.

Best days to visit

Weekend crowds can grow large, especially during ski season. Try to visit midweek to avoid traffic heading down from the mountain.

Best months to visit

Ski season typically runs from November through May, while trail conditions are generally best between July and October before the rain kicks in.

Special events

If you want to see the fabled Bigfoot—or at least swap stories with people who claim they have—visit during the Sasquatch Festival in April.