41Miles
3–4Days
9,000 ftGain
LoopType
Permits
System
Self-issued Mount Hood Wilderness permitFill out the permit at Timberline Lodge or any trailhead. Glacial creek crossings (Eliot, Sandy, Zigzag) run highest on warm afternoons; cross early in the day.Apply or read more
Cost
Free
Bear storage
Not required
Season
Best
Late July – September. Snowfields linger near Cooper Spur into July.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Frequent creeks, many glacial and silty. Filter all.
Resupply
Timberline Lodge at start and end.
Notes
Circles Mount Hood through wildflower meadows and glacial canyons. The Eliot Branch crossing is the crux; it has been closed or dangerous in some years.
Elevation
4,600 ftHigh 7,300 ft
Resupply towns
Timberline Lodge (start/end)
Recommended gear