Kiri & Mary went hiking May 20, 2012 3.5 miles 500 feet gained
Kiri: Two weeks ago we were in Hood River and saw the article about this hike in the Oregonian. We vowed to return to catch some wildflower action. Not the perfect day to be up there, Mt. Hood was shrouded in clouds, but the flowers were eye-poppingly gorgeous regardless. We went later in the day and had the entire ridge pretty much to ourselves.
Mary: This trail has everything... from the trail head it's smooth and tight with scrubby pines, flowering bushes and scattered lupine and sweet peas. The ascent has no switchbacks so it is all uphill until you start seeing breaks in the greenery with views of the Columbia and the surrounding hills.
As the trail starts to flatten out toward the top, there are some amazing views of the valley from the cliffs that are completely covered in wildflowers including paintbrush, lupine, foxglove, sweet peas and aster. There are also a few patches of small violets and columbine in the forested parts that are really delicate and pretty.
One you get to the crest of the hill, the vistas are amazing in every direction and the rock formations and flowers are abundant. There are great flat spots between the rocks and flowers that would be perfect for a picnic.
The trail down the other side of the hill is pretty steep with uneven rock surfaces. Not anything for someone who is used to hiking, but beware if you have knee problems. The surface is pretty solid though with just a bit of gravel once you get past the lookout tower. Great trail overall with absolutely gorgeous views and no crowds or noise at all. Just the wind and the birds!
