

Notable natural features include Cooper Spur, Illumination Rock, Barrett Spur, Mississippi Head, McNeil Point, Yocum Ridge, and Cathedral Ridge.Įruptions on Mount Hood have been characterized less by powerful explosions than by the gradual building and collapse of lava domes, pyroclastic flows, and volcanic mudflows known as lahars. At its highest, Mount Hood topped 12,000 feet, with ice and erosion reducing the peak to its current height. Over the ensuing millennia, further eruptions continued to shape and give rise to the mountain. Eruptions and GlaciersĬomposed primarily of andesite and dacite, Mount Hood began to form during volcanic eruptions between 500,000 and 700,000 years ago. Mount Hood has played a central role in the geology, history, natural environment, and culture that have helped shape northwest Oregon and the entire Pacific Northwest. At 11,244 feet, it is the highest point in Oregon and the fourth highest peak in the Cascade Range. But it is truly a classic route that is one of the best in the entire country.Mount Hood is a stratovolcano in northwest Oregon located about fifty miles east of Portland and thirty-five miles south of the Columbia River. With 9,000 feet of elevation gain throughout, there are plenty of ups and downs. Timberline Trail: Backpackers will love this 38-mile trail that takes them deep into the wilderness, circumnavigating Mount Hood in the process.At 3.3 miles in length, this is a fairly easy out-and-back stroll through the forest that will immerse you in the backcountry throughout. Tamanawas Falls: While this hike doesn't offer the trademark views of the mountain it does take trekkers to an amazing waterfall instead.The views of Mount Hood from the summit are fantastic, too, only adding to the sense of satisfaction. Mount Defiance: This 12-mile long route takes hikers up more than 4800 feet in elevation, providing breathtaking views of the national forest along the way.The payoff is another pristine mountain lake with Mount Hood dominating the skyline. Mirror Lake: Although this trail is just 2.1 miles in length, it does feature more than 700 feet of vertical gain, providing a good workout along the way.The route is a favorite among photographers looking to capture the mountain reflected in the clear waters. Trillium Lake Loop: This two-mile long loop trail makes for a short, but scenic hike, with picture-perfect views of Mount Hood at nearly every turn.
