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National Forest Week |
Each year, National Forest Week is a way for everyone to celebrate the incredible 193-million-acre National Forest System and all the benefits it provides to the public. National Forest Week takes place the second full week of July, this year from July 8-14. At Mt. Hood Territory, we are very lucky to be home to the Mt. Hood National Forest. The forest provides visitors and locals with amazing resources, access to outdoor recreation and a variety of learning opportunities. Mt. Hood National Forest offers year-round recreation opportunities, from hiking and water activities in the warmer months to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. No matter when you visit, you're sure to find an activity that excites you. Here are six ways that you can celebrate National Forest Week 2024.
Mt. Hood National Forest offers more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails, with paths for every experience level. View the Mt. Hood Territory Trails Guide for a list of suggested trails to hike.
Travel Tip: Book a guided tour to enhance your experience. Local guides provide guests with safe access to the outdoors, while also giving insights into the forest and local history. And remember to stay on the trail when hiking.
Adventuring near the water is beloved in Mt. Hood Territory every season. Thankfully, Mt. Hood National Forest is filled with lakes and rivers you can access.
Travel Tip: Don't have your own kayak or stand-up paddleboard? No problem! Clackamas River Outfitters in Estacada offers rentals and guided tours, making it even easier to get out and enjoy the water.
The Barlow Road section of the Oregon Trail passes through Mt. Hood National Forest. The best part? Most of it is easily accessible!
Travel Tip: Stop into the Mt. Hood Cultural Center and Museum for exhibits on the history of Mt. Hood. Located in Government Camp, this is the only museum that specifically showcases Mt. Hood history and culture along the Barlow Road branch of the Oregon Trail.
Did you know that the Mt. Hood area is filled with experts on the local trail and wilderness areas? That's right, you "otter" ask a ranger for tips when you're planning your travels. They can help make sure you're properly prepared to have a safe and wonderful time exploring our area. Local Mt. Hood National Forest ranger stations include the Zigzag Ranger Station and Mt. Hood National Forest Headquarters.
Travel Tip: No matter when you visit Mt. Hood Territory, you're set to have a great time and we want you to "take care out there." From tips for staying on trail to ways to stay prepared, Monty Hood the River Otter just loves telling people what they "otter do" to make sure you stay safe and enjoy your adventures.
One of the great things about having a mountain in your National Forest is that it creates awesome mountain biking trails. From beginner-to-expert levels, there are some great rides in Mt. Hood Territory that will get your heart and adrenaline pumping.
Travel Tip: Ride the Mt. Hood Express bus to avoid having to drive. The bus has a trailer for bikes and offers a great way to catch a ride up the mountain before you bike back down.
If you're looking to visit the mountain and enjoy fewer crowds, then a midweek visit is for you! Not only will you enjoy fewer people on the trails and less traffic, but you can also find more activities and more camping options.
Travel Tip: Another bonus of visiting midweek is that with fewer people on a certain day, you're putting less strain on infrastructure and on the natural surroundings.
