This is a quiet all-season trail that offers a variety of terrain (Snowshoes need to be worn in winter). Large open meadows, heavily wooded mixed forest, and a ridgetop ramble take you to a former lookout site with spectacular views of the Hood River Valley. This hike uses two different trails; it's a 2.3 mile climb up the Oak Ridge Trail; then it's 1.8 miles on the Surveyors Ridge Trail to Bald Butte.

http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Bald_Butte_Hike

Activity Notes

Let's all hike Bald Butte! A butte located west of Mt Hood near Parkdale, after passing through sections of forest, large open meadows and past clusters of balsamroot, we'll arrive at the top for a picturesque view of Mt. Hood and the Hood River valley. Once at the top, we'll spend a bit of time eating lunch and relaxing. I'll be bringing my yoga mat most likely and encourage you to join me if you want to get in a few stretches. For this hike, we'll meet at Gateway Park and Ride (lowest level of the garage towards the left of the entrance) at 8:30 am to set out. Distance: 8.2 miles round trip. Elevation gain: 2465 feet. Drive: 150 miles round trip. $2 members $4 non-members. Please also bring money for gas - the Mazamas recommendation in terms of reimbursement to drivers is 10 cents per mile. Note that this hike is exploratory (in that I have not done it). Bring food, water, sunscreen, appropriate clothing (hiking boots, etc) and long pants / some sort of coverage (ticks in the area). No dogs please since I have not led this hike before.
Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 144 miles
Distance - Round Trip 8 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Relevant Maps MH14
Awards Qualified Mt. Hood Award
Useful Links GPS Track New Window Icon Icon two stacked browser windows.
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