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Visiting Mount Hood

Rising up 11,249 feet, Mount Hood is the tallest volcano in Oregon and the fourth tallest volcano in the Cascade Range. Its iconic triangular peak is recognizable from a distance and can be seen as far South in Oregon as Deschutes County on a clear day.

A formidable and potentially active volcano, Mt Hood is nevertheless a well-loved and a widely popular outdoor recreation destination. With beautiful wildflowers that bloom all summer long, sub-Alpine lakes, and lush forests, Mount Hood National Forest is popular for good reason. The beauty and ruggedness of these forested habitats near Mount Hood also make it a wonderful playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Read on to learn about a few of our favorite things to do near Mt Hood Oregon.

Summer Activities on Mt Hood Oregon

During the summertime, the snow melt on Mount Hood Oregon creates dozens of rushing rivers and paints the hillsides with wildflowers. Lupin, balsamroot, dogwood, trillium, rhododendron, Indian paintbrush, beargrass, and more all bloom at different times throughout the summer in Oregon.

For the best opportunity to see wildflowers, we recommend hiking on one of these popular trails: Ramona Falls Trail, Trillium Lake Loop, Mirror Lake Loop Trail, or the Lost Lake Butte Trail. All of these trails have spectacular views of Mount Hood and offer seasonal opportunities to see wildflowers.

Before you go, be sure you have the proper gear to keep you safe, stay on the trails, and know not to pick the wildflowers. Leaving no trace on the hiking trails keeps them trash free and looking pristinely beautiful for years to come!

When you’re done looking at wildflowers, waterfalls, and Mount Hood, we highly recommend cooling off by going kayaking, paddleboarding, or swimming in Lost Lake or Trillium Lake. Lost Lake features a camping resort, too, so it’s a great option for families.

Winter Activities

In the wintertime, Mt Hood gets buried in hundreds of inches of fresh snow. With an average snowfall of around 30 feet per season, Mount Hood is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders in the Pacific Northwest. Several great, locally owned ski resorts are located on three sides of Mount Hood, with the largest cluster being around Government Camp on Mount Hood’s south side.

Ski Bowl, Mount Hood Meadows, Timberline Lodge, and Copper Spur are all great snow parks that utilize Mount Hood’s rugged and varied terrain to create interesting runs and family fun.

For an even more relaxed time, snowshoe or cross-country ski around Trillium Lake or on the Tilly Jane Ski Area near Copper Spur. Both areas have gorgeous views of Mount Hood and offer great terrain for both beginners and athletes to enjoy.

Stay Close with Hood River Vacations

Located just minutes from the outdoor recreation that Mount Hood offers. Hood River, Oregon is a small yet bustling town full of great restaurants and interesting shops. Get the best of both worlds by staying in one of our premium vacation rental homes in Hood River.

We offer a variety of different rentals—whether you’re looking for a cheap place to call home, a luxury estate, or are organizing a corporate event, we have several homes that will meet your needs. Take a look at our available Hood River vacation rental homes today!

Book our Hood River Rentals Today!

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