MT HOOD HIKES

Tail Wagging Trails

Favorite Hikes Around Mt Hood for You and Your Dog

One of the best reasons to bring your dog along on your next Mt Hood vacation is to enjoy the multitude of scenic trails meandering through the forests and alongside creeks and rivers.  With a happy gait and tail held high, a dog knows how to show us pure enjoyment.

The Villages of Mt Hood boast 100’s of miles of trails of all distances and difficulty levels.  Most have natural watering holes for your active dog.  Human companions will want to carry plenty of water for themselves plus a little extra for the sections of trails without water. 

Please bring along a leash. Many areas require dogs to be leashed at all times. But even when not required, they're a good idea to have on hand. Wildlife will stay closer when your dog is on a leash, and you'll be happy that your dog won't have the chance to chase away and/or harm the wildlife.

The following pet-friendly hiking trails provide an opportunity to witness new spring growth on ferns, trees and foliage. Songbirds abound, and you're sure to be inspired by the forest in bloom, from pink Bleeding Hearts to native Rhododendrons.

Upper Salmon River Trail

The locals’ favorite for afternoon hikes or runs, this trail starts at the bridge where the pavement ends on Salmon River Road.  NW Forest Pass required.

Highlights: Massive old growth firs and cedars, waterfalls, plenty of opportunities for your dog to drink and cool off, lots of scenic picnic areas.

Burnt Lake Trail

Longer hike for the all-day venture, this trail is accessed via Lolo Pass Road with several beautiful views of Mt Hood.

Highlights: Shaded trail keeps you cool on warmer days, refreshing swim in Burnt Lake at the top of the trail, less crowded, lots of views.

McNeil Point

This longer hike is also accessed by way of Lolo Pass Road.

Highlights: Lots of Mt Hood and Zig Zag valley views, spring wildflowers, and interesting stone structure at the top of the trail.

Wildwood Park

Lots of shorter, family-easy hikes and trails throughout the 600 acre BLM recreation area.

Highlights: Gentle, wide swoopy trails of all distances, handicap access trails, Cascade Streamwatch (see related story).

 

April/May 2007

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