Rising majestically east of Portland, Mount Hood National Forest encompasses 1.1 million acres of Oregon’s most dramatic alpine terrain. Established in 1908, this forest stretches over 60 miles from the Columbia River Gorge south to the Olallie Scenic Area beneath Mount Jefferson, offering visitors direct access to Oregon’s highest peak—the 11,250-foot stratovolcano that dominates the skyline.
The forest draws over four million visitors annually, making it one of America’s most popular national forests. Mount Hood itself serves as the centerpiece, with year-round skiing at Timberline Lodge, where the Palmer Snowfield allows summer turns unavailable almost anywhere else in the lower 48. The nearby town of Government Camp provides a convenient base for exploration.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find exceptional opportunities across all seasons. Summer opens access to hundreds of miles of hiking trails, including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail, while crystal-clear rivers and alpine lakes support fishing and rafting. Mountain bikers tackle challenging singletrack, and horseback riders explore backcountry routes. Fall brings world-class hunting, and winter transforms the landscape into a skiing and snowshoeing paradise.
The forest’s proximity to Portland—just 62 miles—makes it remarkably accessible for day trips or extended stays. Peak summer months offer the best conditions for hiking and camping, while winter visitors should prepare for snow at higher elevations. Spring snowmelt creates ideal conditions for whitewater rafting on the Sandy and Clackamas Rivers.
Pack layers regardless of season; mountain weather shifts quickly at elevation.
Explore Nearby
- Lost Creek State Natural Area — State Park in Tennessee
- Sandy Wild and Scenic River — Public Land in Oregon
- Lost Lake sits within the Widow Mountain Wilderness Study Area — Public Land
- Milo McIver State Park — State Park in Oregon
- Historic Columbia River Highway — Scenic Byway in Oregon
