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

Enjoy wildflowers and mountain views without the crowds of Dog Mountain or Catherine Creek! We'll visit Bald Butte, just south of Hood River. This hike has several meadows which should be full of balsamroot, lupine, and paintbrush, among others. If it's clear, there's a view of Hood across the valley.

Note: while most of this hike is pretty quiet, the trail near the summit is used by mountain bikers and dirt bikes. Fortunately, there is plenty of room for everyone.

Meet inside the parking structure at Gateway Transit Center at 8:30 am. We will arrange carpools once everyone has arrived. If you don't have a car, take the MAX or bus to Gateway and join a carpool when you arrive. Passengers please bring about $10 in gas money for your driver.

Hike: 8.6 miles RT, 2,400 feet elevation gain<br> Drive: 145 miles RT

What to bring<br> Rain gear such as a light rain jacket and hat. And sunscreen. It's spring, so be prepared for any kind of weather. Your good camera. Lunch, snacks, and 2 liters of water. Trekking poles if you use them (parts of the trail are steep). No dogs.

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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