West Zig Zag Mountain

This hike may be accessible in the winter/spring but it would likely require snowshoes and snow travel.

The West Zigzag Hike goes up the West side of the Zigzag ridge, taking you to the site of an old fire lookout and great views of wild flowers, Mount Hood, and the Zigzag valley to name a few. The Zigzag Mountain Trail continues past here to East Zigzag Mountain and eventually the Paradise Park Trail, but doing so might require an overnight.

Start on the Zigzag Mountain Trail (#775) which goes directly uphill from the trailhead. Don't take the other trail that continues on the (closed) road. The trail switchbacks up through the forest for 3.3 miles to 4300'. Much of this is well-graded but some parts are steep. Beyond here the trail is relatively level with occasional views. At mile 4.7 is a spring. Drinking water is difficult to find on the Zigzag ridge, this is your chance.

About half a mile before West Zigzag the trail comes out of the trees and makes a hard right turn. Enjoy the great view of Mt. Hood here because you won't be able to see it from the lookout site.

At mile 5.6 is the old West Zigzag Lookout site (4468') with excellent views to the south and the west. Trees and terrain block the view to the west and north. This is the end of this hike; return the way you came.