The Mount Hood National Forest Volunteer Interpreters offer nature hikes at several locations in the forest (from July 4 until September 1, unless otherwise noted).
Timberline Lodge Nature Hikes
Friday and Sunday at 1:30 p.m.; Meet the volunteers at the visitors’ information desk in the lower lobby of the Lodge, right outside of the Barlow Room.
This hike is a 2-mile walk along the mountaineering trail, and covers geological and climbing history of Mount Hood as well as plant identification, discussions of area wildlife and the history of the area. The hike typically takes about one to one and one half hours and requires no hiking experience, only appropriate footwear and participants who are ready to learn!
Salmon River Nature Hike
Enjoy a peaceful 3-mile stroll through old-growth forest along the aptly-named Salmon River on Sundays at 9 a.m. Meet your guide at the bridge on Salmon River Road in Welches and travel west along the river for a discussion of river systems, forest ecology, wildlife, plant identification and more.
Mirror Lake Nature Hike
This hike is less than 3 miles, gains a small amount of elevation and travels there and back to beautiful Mirror Lake located off Highway 26, one mile before Mt. Hood Skibowl. Guides will cover wildflower identification, water ecology and more on this short, walk that takes about two hours on Saturdays at 11 a.m.
Barlow Road History Hike
Join Rangers at Mt. Hood Skibowl nature hike at 2 p.m. on Sundays to learn about the Barlow Road and Oregon Trail, the geological and archaeological history of the Mt Hood area and more! Bring a picnic to enjoy after a lift ride to the top of Tom Dick Peak for a view of 5 Cascade volcanoes.
Lunch and Learn-Smokey’s Trail Hike for Children
An interactive fire prevention hike for children, Lunch and Lean with Smokey Bear can be booked in advance for large groups wanting a special experience in Mount Hood National Forest. Bring a sack lunch, and enjoy lessons on bears, fire prevention, forest ecology and more at several locations in the forest. For booking information, contact Lawson Reif at (503) 622 – 3191 ext. 610.
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- Sunset view from the Timberline nature trail
