Mt. Hood offers a range of activities, including hiking, fishing, camping, and skiing. There are more than 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers) of hiking trails in Mt. Hood National Forest, with options ranging from beginner to expert.
One of the most famous attractions at Mt. Hood is the Timberline Lodge, a National Historic Landmark that's open throughout the year. The building's exterior was used as the notorious hotel in the 1980 film The Shining.
Mt. Hood tours typically include visits to other attractions in the area, from the Columbia River Gorge—known for its waterfalls and trails—to the Hood River Valley, a popular wine-tasting region with great views of Mount Hood.
Mt. Hood is a good pick for outdoorsy travelers.
Pack water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes for your visit.
The Mt. Hood National Forest extends south from the Columbia River Gorge across more than 60 miles (97 kilometers) to Olallie Scenic Area—a high lake basin under the slopes of Mt. Jefferson.
There are six ski areas on Mt. Hood, one of which (Timberline Lodge) has a year-round lift service.
There's plenty to do in Mt. Hood and the surrounding Mount Hood National Forest, depending on the season. Skiing and snowboarding are usually available from late fall through spring, with fewer crowds Monday through Friday. April through mid-June is generally the safest period to ascend Mt. Hood, as there are fewer chances of avalanches or rockfalls. The historic Columbia River and Hood River are great places to swim, hike, and windsurf in summer.
Mt. Hood is the second-most climbed mountain in the world, with over 10,000 people summiting the peak each year. This adventure is not for the faint of heart (or the poorly prepared). Even the easiest climb from Timberline Lodge is still very technical and requires crampons, ice axes, ropes, and climbing gear. The climb generally takes 8–10 hours round-trip.