Overview
- 7.2 miles
- 1540 feet elevation gain
- incorporates the popular Mirror Lake Trail into a loop hike with some excellent views
The Mirror Lake Trail #664 is one of the most popular hiking destinations in Mount Hood National Forest. With the recent widening of Highway 26 a grand new trail head with plenty of parking was added right next to Mt Hood Skibowl. This was a great update, as I have routinely seen this lot packed full during the day in summer. A mid day hike in the height of summer will be busy. Starting earlier or hiking other times of the year will see less crowds, and following this option to extend the route into a loop and not head back down the way you came sees a decrease in traffic.
From the trail head the very well constructed trail takes off from behind the restrooms and continues through the forest on a new paved portion till crossing the creek. The trail rises through the forest for about 2 miles and 460 feet to Mirror Lake which is encircled by trail with some access down to the lake, campsites, and views of Mt. Hood beyond the lake.
After enjoying the lake, the trail continues uphill from the west side, gaining its elevation through the forest and hillside before coming up onto the ridge line after 1.8 miles. There is a great open area on the rocks here to sit and enjoy stellar views of Mt. Hood over Mirror Lake.
Watch out for the very Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrels which know the spot is a popular snack destination. This is the usual turn around spot, but the trail continues to follow the ridge beyond to the next peaks.
Watch out for the very Golden-Mantled Ground Squirrels which know the spot is a popular snack destination. This is the usual turn around spot, but the trail continues to follow the ridge beyond to the next peaks.
Follow the trail (now much less distinct) along the ridge, past the crags of Dick Mountain then along a open section that is part of a cross country ski route up to Tom Peak. There is some equipment up top here and good views. Once you’re read to head down, find the road on the right and start to head down. Follow the road keeping right on skyline road. Respect the Mountain bike trails and observe the signs to stay off.
The road weaves through the Mt. Hood Skibowl area and eventually down to the parking lot below.
