Highlight • Trail
Mirror Lake Trailhead
Hiking
5.0
(24)
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Mount Hood National Forest
Tips
July 14, 2023
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Mirror Lake Trailhead
4.5
(4)
17
hikers
6.09km
01:57
400m
20m
The Mirror Lake Trail #664 offers a quintessential Mount Hood experience, leading you through a lush second-growth forest of fir and alder before revealing the stunning Mirror Lake. This classic glacial cirque lake is famous for its postcard-perfect reflections of Mount Hood on calm days, making it a prime spot for photography. The path to the lake is generally gradual and well-maintained, but for those craving more, the trail continues to Tom Dick Ridge, where you'll find rougher terrain and expansive views of the Cascade Range.
This moderate hiking route covers 3.8 miles (6.1 km) with 1308 feet (399 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 1 hour and 57 minutes. The trailhead is conveniently located at the west end of Mt. Hood Skibowl Ski Area, featuring a paved, barrier-free start and restrooms. Due to its popularity, especially on sunny weekends, arriving early is highly recommended to secure parking. While a summer favorite, the trail is also popular for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in winter.
Beyond its scenic beauty, the Mirror Lake Trail #664 is notable for its accessibility and the option to extend your adventure. The initial section to Mirror Lake is considered family-friendly, while the ascent to Tom Dick Ridge significantly increases the challenge, suiting more experienced hikers. The area around the lake provides opportunities for picnicking and camping, and the trail also serves as a gateway to the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness.
4.7
(21)
356
hikers
6.67km
01:57
180m
180m
The Mirror Lake Trail offers a quintessential Pacific Northwest experience, winding through vibrant, old-growth forests of Douglas fir and hemlock before revealing the stunning reflection of Mount Hood in its namesake lake. This easy 4.1-mile (6.7 km) hike, with a gentle 601 feet (183 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 57 minutes to complete, making it an ideal outing for a relaxed afternoon.
Planning your visit to Mirror Lake Trail is straightforward, though it's a popular route, so consider an early start to secure parking. The trailhead was relocated a few years ago, slightly extending the overall distance. This trail is accessible year-round, transforming into a beautiful snowshoeing destination in winter, but always check conditions before you go.
What makes Mirror Lake Trail truly notable is its iconic, postcard-perfect view of Mount Hood mirrored in the lake, a scene that draws visitors from all over. It's a fantastic option for family friendly hikes and beginner hikers, with the added bonus of extending your adventure to Tom, Dick & Harry Mountain for more challenging terrain and expansive views of the Cascade Range.
4.6
(22)
262
hikers
13.2km
04:00
450m
450m
The Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain via Mirror Lake Trail #664 offers a quintessential Mount Hood hiking experience, transitioning from verdant evergreen forests to high alpine meadows. You'll first reach the iconic Mirror Lake, renowned for its postcard-perfect reflections of Mount Hood, before continuing your ascent. The terrain becomes rockier and steeper as you climb towards the summit, where you're rewarded with expansive, panoramic views of the Cascade Range, making the 8.2 miles (13.2 km) and 1462 feet (446 metres) of elevation gain feel truly worthwhile.
This moderate route, typically completed in about 4 hours, is incredibly popular, so plan to arrive early at the Mirror Lake Trailhead, especially on sunny days, to secure a parking spot. While the initial section to Mirror Lake is family-friendly, the upper trail to Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain is more rugged. In winter, the trail transforms into a popular snowshoeing destination, but be mindful that it's not maintained for winter travel, and snow conditions can vary greatly.
What truly sets this trail apart are the unparalleled views from the top of Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain, considered among the best in the entire Mt. Hood National Forest. Beyond Mount Hood itself, you can often spot Mount Jefferson, Mount Adams, and even Mount Rainier on clear days. The trail also boasts seasonal wildflowers and rhododendrons, adding splashes of color to the diverse landscape.
Details
Informations
Elevation 1,110 m
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Sunday 14 June
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