Pacific Coast Trail: Mount Hood Wilderness

The Mount Hood Wilderness section of the Pacific Crest Trail makes for a great long day hike with a shuttle, or an easy overnight backpacking trip. Beginning from Timberline Lodge is preferred, as you’ll enjoy mostly downhill hiking to Top Spur Trailhead where this section ends. Along the way there are two optional detours, a longer one to stunning Paradise Park, and a shorter one to beautiful Ramona Falls.

When beginning from Timberline Lodge be sure to take some time to visit the historic lodge, and perhaps enjoy their hiker approved breakfast buffet. Then hike up above the lodge and turn left on the PCT.

You’ll follow the PCT through the ski area then eventually descend and cross the Zigzag River. Shortly afterward you’ll have the option to add on a bit of elevation gain to visit Paradise Park. If the weather is clear I’d highly recommend this beautiful alternate. The views of Mount Hood are spectacular, and there is great camping if you find yourself here in the evening.

Otherwise, continue along the PCT. You’ll descend to and cross the Sandy River. After this is the second optional detour. This one is a must! Visiting Ramona Falls adds very little time or distance, as you can then take the Ramona Falls Trail to rejoin the PCT.

A steady climb through the forest then takes you to the junction with the Top Spur Trail. Turn left to descend to Top Spur Trailhead where this section ends and hopefully you have a shuttle waiting.