Little Zig Zag Loop.
Looking to take advantage of a sunny afternoon after work, we headed to Mt Hood for a short hike that would guarantee some sunset views. From the Timberline Lodge Trail-head we followed the Timberline Trail East behind the lodge for the 2.4 miles it takes to get to the Zigag Canyon overlook.
From there we left the trail, and headed up the sandy ridge-line, climbing steadily as the trees and vegetation became sparser. We continued climbing, heading east away from the ridge and found some great boulders to hang out on and enjoy the setting sun.
It took some continued climbing, crossing snowfields and exploring to find a spot above the beginnings of the Little Zigzag Canyon to cross east, heading toward the Silcox Hut. Once at the ski area we headed down on the road and arrived back at the lodge just as the stars were starting to pop in the clear sky. 5.75 miles and 1700 feet of elevation gained.