The hike to stone shelter at McNeil Point follows the Top Spur trail to the PCT, then to the Timberline Trail, and finally the McNeil Point Trail. Along the way you will pass through old growth forests, have spectacular views of Mount Hood, cross some beautiful creeks, and in mid summer, see plenty of wildflowers. Further details can be found at http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/McNeil_Point_Hike

Activity Notes

One of the most popular hikes on the west side of Mt Hood is McNeil Point from Top Spur. On this hike, we will first get great views of the volcano from Bald Mountain, and then we will take a short climb to the Timberline Trail clockwise. Not long after we spot Mt Hood again, we will take the scramble trail, which ascends 200' steeply to the McNeil Point shelter, near which we will enjoy lunch. We will descend via the gentler McNeil Point trail, then take the most direct route back to Top Spur. I haven't done this exact trip for over a decade--I try to avoid Top Spur on summer weekends--but my best guess as to our stats is 8.6 miles and 2,200'. 

We will leave Mazamas at 06:00 and arrive Top Spur a little after 07:30, given that we'll stop somewhere for restrooms since the toilets were gone from this trailhead last summer. You can view our driving route at https://maps.app.goo.gl/P6d4ZjirzYDdUihd8.

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 55 miles
Driving Time from Portland 1 hours
Distance - Round Trip 10 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Interesting Features Creek(s), Meadow, Mountain Views, Wildflowers
Relevant Maps MH-F
Awards Qualified Awesome Ridges Award, Mt. Hood Award, Wild Ones