How difficult is the Timberline Trail?

The Timberline Trail is a Portland staple that’s grown in national popularity over the past few years. It’s easy to understand why. It’s a challenging hike with over 10,000 feet of gain in under 42 miles, but it’s still a manageable push even for beginners.

Are there bears on the Timberline Trail?

There are black bears in Mt. Hood National Forest but it’s not very common to see them along this route.

How long does it take to hike the Timberline Trail?

4 days and 3 nights
Most people take 4 days and 3 nights, beginning and ending at Timberline Lodge, and go clockwise. A number of other alternatives are mentioned below. The detailed description is the same regardless of how you do it. At a few places there are several choices of route which can make the hike a little shorter or longer.

Can I climb Mt. Hood right now?

Mt. Hood can be climbed any time of year, depending on your chosen route. However, climbers using the south side routes should consider climbing from mid-April to mid-July, depending on route conditions.

How long is the Timberline Trail around Mount Hood?

Timberline Trail Around Mount Hood is a 41.4 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Rhododendron, Oregon that features a waterfall and is rated as difficult. The trail offers a number of activity options and is accessible year-round. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

What happened to the Timberline Lodge on Mt Hood?

It’s a short walk over to the Cloud Cap Inn historic site. The Cloud Cap Inn, built by Chinese laborers for $50,000 in 1889, is Mt Hood’s first resort. It had a tough go of it, and in 1946 closed for good as a resort, with the Timberline Lodge effectively putting it out of business.

How easy is it to miss the Timberline Trail?

It’s easy to miss this trail as it is hidden in a thicket of young mountain hemlocks. Dollar Lake is 0.3 miles from the Timberline Trail. There are three established campsites there but they are popular and may be full on summer weekends. From here, there’s a one mile side trip up to Barrett Spur.

Do you need a permit for the Timberline Trail?

One of the great things about the Timberline Trail is that there is NOT a quota permit system. You need a permit, which you can get at the trailheads, but it’s about awareness and following the rules within the Mt Hood Wilderness. And that’s it. Just show up, sign your permit, understand what it says, and have fun.