Mount Hood's 15 Best Day Hikes

Mount Hood is an iconic symbol of the Northwest that looms at 11,250 feet above sea level over the surrounding Oregon landscape, including Portland. It sits in the federally designated Mount Hood Wilderness, and it is the state’s tallest mountain, making it one of the most pristine and well-loved mountains in region.

Mount Hood is a great place to spot wildlife such as black bears, elk, and marmots, and it is also a prime choice to see and smell wildflowers that grow in colorful bursts throughout this segment of the Cascades. It’s a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the summer, but it also has plenty of trails to explore and places to avoid the crowds.

Many hikes in the Mount Hood area also offer rewarding views of the mountain itself. As amazing as it is to stop and take in the snow-capped peak of this one of a kind scene, be sure to enjoy the less grandiose aspects of these hikes, as well.  

Below you’ll find some of the most ideal trails in the Mount Hood Wilderness to really get to know Mount Hood and it’s surrounding forest. Whether you are craving some glacial views, a long rugged trek, wildflowers strewn scenery, or a nice alpine lake for a picnic, the trails on this list will not disappoint.

1. Elk Meadows
2. Paradise Park
3. Cooper Spur + Cloud Cap
4. Gnarl Ridge
5. Owl Point
6. Burnt Lake and Zigzag Mountain
7. Hunchback Mountain
8. McNeil Point
9. Muddy Fork
10. Bald Butte Hike
11. Clear Lake Butte Lookout
12. Fivemile Butte Lookout
13. Lookout Mountain from High Prairie
14. Gunsight Ridge Trail
15. Bonney Butte