Elk Meadows South Trail

This is a great trip for those who are new to backpacking. The hike to the quiet, peaceful Elk Meadows is relatively short, but the Newton Creek crossing presents enough difficulty to make this a fun and challenging adventure.Start at the Hood River Meadows Trailhead parking lot. Though there are several junctions along the trail, the route to Elk Meadows is clearly marked. You’ll begin on the ...

With easy parking right off Hwy 35 on the east side of Mt Hood, Bennett Pass is a perfect destination for a straightforward lap on cross country skis, snowshoes or accessing easy backcountry terrain for skiers and boarders.  Bennett Pass Road is a well-graded 5.1 mile out-and-back with several trails branching off of it farther out. Dogs are allowed on leash. This trail starts in the sno-park o...

Just 66 miles east of Portland, and 35 miles south of Hood River the infamous Mt Hood breaks through the clouds for all to see. The highest peak of Oregon is the ultimate explorer's paradise offering something for every season... and in this case we mean snow shoeing and hiking!!Our trek begins at the parking lot of the ever so popular Meadows Ski Resort. Instead of driving in circles with th...

The White River West Sno-Park is a hub of winter activities at Mt. Hood. At 4200', this area is easily accessed directly off of Route 35. The large parking lot fills up quickly on snowy weekends so arrive early to get a spot and make sure that you have an Oregon Sno-Park Permit*.The White River runs along the east side of the parking lot. Head to the North side to access the trails. The parking...

Park at White River West Sno-Park. Walk to the north end of the parking lot. Start a very brief way up the White River Trail. After 100-200 feet, step off the main trail, to your left, and head into the woods for some solitude. To get to the Pacific Crest Trail, look for the blue diamond trail markers nailed to the trees. You'll inevitably see snowshoe tracks of those who came before you. Brief...

Ending just a few thousand feet shy of the mountain top, Palmer Lift doesn't start operating until most ski resorts are nearing their close. This leaves most of the mountain nearly uninhabited and ideal for exploring with close up views of the complex summit above and well into Oregon down below.For those interested in an early day adventure, sunrise over the lower stretches of the mountain is ...