Bald Mountain From Lolo Pass Trailhead

Mount Hood National Forest is home to multiple backpacking routes and scenic views. During the summer months the clouds often give way providing breathtaking views of Mount Hood and the surrounding forest. The lush forests are adorned with different types of wildflowers in the early summer months and the close proximity to Portland makes it a worthwhile day trip.

The adventure to Bald Mountain from Lolo Pass is a gem on Mount Hood that can be reached with moderate elevation gain to the summit, hovering at 4,573 feet. Begin traversing up a narrow dirt path along the Pacific Crest Trail from Lolo Pass Trailhead and quickly become immersed in dense forest. For the first 2.5 miles, hikers will follow compacted switchbacks decorated with roots and the occasional rock before reaching the first view point at 2.6 miles. This is the first clearing with expansive views of Mount. Hood. Continue along the trail at a fairly easy to moderate climb for another half mile before reaching the first trail junction with Top Spur Trail. Continue straight and just beyond that junction will be another trail junction. The trail straight-ahead, with the sign to Muddy Fork, is the southbound section of Timberline Trail #600 and will lead to what seems to be the almost-forgotten trail to Bald Mountain.

In roughly 500 feet there will be an unmarked trail on the left between two large trees. Follow this steep and rugged route above the Timberline Trail for about a quarter-mile before coming to a small platform with views of Mount Hood. The platform is marked with two concrete blocks, which signify a lookout that once stood in that area in the 1930s. This provides the best vantage point of the mountain and you only have to hop over a handful of fallen trees to access. Continue back down the summit's trail and turn left to carry on the Timberline Trail, and the more constant flow of hikers. Just a quarter mile from the trail to Bald Mountain, another opening will appear. Hikers will follow the trail cliffside with mountain views around the corner and wildflowers (when in season) sprouting in every direction.

If you've decided you haven't had enough, continue forth on Timberline Trail #600 through mature forest and slight creek crossings on mostly flat ground. The quiet serenity of this trail is a draw for both hikers and backpackers, and the lack of bugs makes it a pleasant walk. Take the cut-off trail to the left to loop back around to the junction, following the trail back to Lolo Pass Trailhead. If you opt to continue straight on Timberline Trail #600, it will carry you through sparse trees around Mount Hood, eventually connecting back to Timberline Lodge. It will not loop you back to the initial trail junction. 

This trail may appear busy at the trailhead, but because of the multiple trail junctions further up the trail and accessibility for backpackers, there are only moderate crowds hiking to Bald Mountain.