Linda's Question:
I will be visiting Portland, Oregon and would like to hike Mount Hood. My two daughters (25 and 21) and I would like to have this wonderful experience together. Although we exercise regularly and the motivation is there, at the moment, we do not have a background of serious hiking experience. What trails do you suggest and what would be the best strategy for climbing in terms of mileage? Also, we were talking about the possibility of an overnight. Is it advisable to do this? What wildlife might we encounter, and what precautions should we take when camping? Also, what can we expect in terms of weather so that we can dress accordingly? All suggestions are most welcome. Thank you.

—Linda

Karen's Answer:

	Karen Berger Meet Karen Previous Answers Hiking Forums

Hi Robert —

Linda, given what you've told me about your background, I wouldn't advise a climb of Mount Hood without a guide. Guide service is available from at least three schools/concessionaires: Art of Adventure (503-622-0202); Northwest School of Survival (503-668-8264), and Timberline Mountain Guides (800-464-7704). Mount Hood National Forest can also provide info (503-622-7674).

The reason I suggest a guide is that although there is the inevitable story of"a lady climbing Mount Hood in high-heeled shoes and a dress," and although Mount Hood is the most frequently climbed snow-capped mountain in America, it is still a major peak that is subject to rockfall and violent storms, even in summer. Without significant high-mountain experience, you may not be able to pick out a safe route or assess the changes of dangerous conditions. It's not an especially difficult climb—just potentially dangerous. With a guide service (and moderate luck with the weather) anyone in good shape has a safe shot at the top.

A beautiful alternative would be to explore the timberline area of Mount Hood by following the Pacific Crest Trail from beautiful Timberline Lodge, a WPA project from the 1930s that features artisan workmanship and gourmet cuisine. From the lodge, the PCT heads north around the western flank and joins the Timberline Trail, which circles Mount Hood in its entirety. The entire Timberline Trail takes a few days, but you could always do an out-and-back hike on the PCT, perhaps camping overnight.

As far as gear is concerned, if you stay at the timberline (around 6,000 feet), you should have two light warm layers (a poly pro and a light fleece) for your torso and one for your legs. Also good raingear. If you climb the mountain, you should have an additional warm layer for both legs and torso; also gloves, hat, ice ax, and gaiters. The climbing school will provide a list of its suggestions.

Karen