Mazamas — For the Love of Mountains
With beautiful views, amazing spring wildflowers, and a relatively short effort, this is one of the most popular hikes in the Gorge. On a good day, you can get a view of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River.
Good resources: WTA Portland Hikers
Activity Notes
Oregonhikers.org says "Dog Mountain is a popular hike due to its easy access right off Highway 14, beautiful views, spring wildflower displays, and relatively short distance. Don't let the distance and low elevation fool you, however; the trails are very steep and will require some fitness and perseverance. This loop is known for prime wildflower viewing in May and June, but hikes in the summer and fall are rewarding as well. In winter, there is often snow on the summit but the magic of an uncrowded perch offers its own delight. The trail up Dog Mountain is the original route of the Cascade Crest Trail, which became the Pacific Crest Trail, on the Washington side of the Columbia River."
Of course we won't get to enjoy the views or the wild flowers since we will be hiking at night! This hike is designed to let you feel what an alpine start is like. This means starting in the dark, sometimes before midnight, so you can summit early in the day and be descending as the weather heats up.
