Winter hiking is fun!

I admit that winter hiking seems harsh and cold, but there is a bright side to the season too. Quiet and peaceful come to mind, along with a deeper silence that seems to lead to more random animal encounters. This winter so far is proving to be an exception, but usually the Gorge or lower elevation river trails (2000ft. or under) are where I would use the microspikes and expect more ice than snow. Some of my favorite snow free areas are the waterfall trails in the Scenic Area if it has been really raining or Herman or Eagle Creeks, if I want an extended overnight or multi-day trips. Above those settings, I am armed with snowshoes, more food because of higher exertion, warmer clothes and a insulated hydration hose for my water blatter so it won’t freeze. Start out at some of the more popular Sno-Parks like White River, Mt. Hood Meadows, Marble Mountain and take the marked trails as far as you feel comfortable. The benefit to the S. Parks are the fact that the roads are plowed, the trails are marked and “tracked out” for easier travel. Make sure before you head out to check the weather and snow conditions at NVAC, and allow for extra travel time both on the road and trail. Mirror Lake is a good one to start your winter at, it is about 5 miles from the Sno-Park across from Ski Bowl on Mt. Hood. Simply cross Hwy. 26, make a right and follow the road down to the TH which has a bridge crossing a stream and take the well graded trail 1.5 miles to the lake. Got more energy, follow the trail higher to Tom Dick and Harry Ridge for a spectacular view of Wy’ East as well as 4 other High Cascade Peaks for a lovely 8 mile day!

The Mountain from Mirror Lake

Wy’East from the Ridge