Glade Trail

Just a short walk from the heart of Government Camp, the south side of Mount Hood offers a network of well-maintained winter trails that provide a range of choices for winter recreation: backcountry skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding are all fair game.

For this adventure, we decided to snowshoe up the Glade Trail, a trail that connects the Timberline Ski Area and Government Camp, and sled down. Haven't had this much fun sledding since I was a kid!

Going up, the trail progresses along at a relatively steep incline, climbing 1,880 feet over nearly 3 miles as you work your way towards the bottom of Blossom Lift at Timberline. Once at the top, enjoy the vistas as you look southwest over the Mount Hood National Forest and further on to the Willamette Valley. On a clear day you can spot Mount Jefferson off to your left.

Heading down, take care to maintain control of your sled and watch for other trail users. Secure your belongings and hold on tight as you make your way back the way you came up.

Recommended Gear

Before you head out on your next Mount Hood adventure, make sure you have the right gear! 

Here's a list of our go-to snowshoeing essentials to get you started:

Snowshoes: MSR Lightning Ascent Snowshoe

Men's and Women's • $229.95 • Cushioned, Made in USA, Ultralight, 98.8 oz

Jacket/Shell: Arc'teryx Zeta AR Jacket

Men's and Women's • $475.00 • Waterproof, Adjustable Drawcord Hem, Pit Zips, GORE-TEX

Pack: Mammut Nirvana Pro Pack 

$189.95 • 35L, Carry-On Size, Hip Belt, Ice Axe / Pole Loops, Hydration Compatible

Insulating Layer: Moosejaw Dequindre Down Jacket

Men's and Women's • $134.25 • Water-resistant, Insulated, Adjustable Drawcord Hem

Poles: Black Diamond Traverse Pole 

$79.95 • Aluminum, Adjustable with Lever Lock System, 21 oz.

Gloves: The North Face GORE-TEX Gloves

Men's Powdercloud • $181.61 • Waterproof, Adjustable, Insulated, GORE-TEX

Boots: Vasque Snowblime UltraDry Boot

Men's and Women's • $149.95 • Waterproof, Cushioned, Insulated

Gaiters: Outdoor Research Verglas Gaiter 

Men's and Women's • $64.95 • Waterproof, Breathable, Lightweight, Abrasion-resistant

If you are snowshoeing into avalanche terrain, you should be prepared, equipped and educated on how to use avalanche rescue and snow safety gear - including but not limited to an avalanche beacon/transceiver, probe, and shovel.