Hiking

Hikes in the Zigzag Ranger District (70220 U.S. 26 E., Zigzag, 541/666-0704 or 503/622-3191 from Portland) are an excellent introduction to the wealth of recreation options in the Mount Hood National Forest off U.S. 26. Whether you’re driving the whole Mount Hood Loop [1] (U.S. 26–Rte. 35–I-84) or just looking for a nice day trip from the Portland [2] area, the Zigzag District’s relatively low elevation and spectacular views of the state’s highest mountain can be enjoyed by neophyte hikers or trail-wise veterans.

If you’re coming in from the west, stop at the Mount Hood Information Center (65000 U.S. 26 E., Welches, 541/622-4822 or 888/622-4822, www.mthood.info [3]), located in the Mount Hood Village Resort on the south side of the highway. This facility will help you get your bearings with a wealth of pamphlets and an information desk. Pick up the free Forest Service flyer “Mount Hood Hikes.”

Trails

• Salmon River Trail [4]
• Ramona Falls Trail [5]
• McNeil Point Shelter [6]
• Mirror Lake Trail [7]
• Timberline Trail [8]
• Buried Forest Overlook [9]
• Cloud Cap [10]