Tour Mt. Hood By Snowshoe This Winter

Mt. Hood Outfitters offers guided snowshoe tours on Mt. Hood where their guides will tell you about the local forests, animals you might see and fun facts about the mountain and surrounding communities. This winter season they are offering two different trail tours. Guides will take you on either the Crosstown Trail or Summit Trail. Both depart from the Mt. Hood Outfitters store in Government Camp.

Mt. Hood Outfitters also offers snowshoe rentals as well as trekking poles, trail maps and information.

Travel Tip: View more guides and outfitters on Mt. Hood for other activities here.

If you’re looking to head out on your own snowshoe trip on Mt. Hood, stop into the Zigzag Ranger District where the rangers provide a wealth of information about the local trails and where to find stunning views. They can direct you to many different trailheads depending on your abilities and also provide you with the knowledge to keep you safe while you explore.

Crosstown Trail: With minimal elevation gain, Crosstown Trail is a great trail for beginners. Start your trek at Summit Pass ski area or Glacier View Sno-Park just outside of Government Camp. Along the trail you’ll pass through a variety of trees, including lodgepole pines, Douglas firs, and western red cedars. And don’t forget to finish your adventure with a beverage and food from one of the many great restaurants in Government Camp.

Trillium Lake: One incredibly popular snowshoe destination on Mt. Hood is Trillium Lake. Known for amazingly blue waters that perfectly reflect Mt. Hood during warmer months, Trillium Lake’s transformation during the winter is magical. The frozen lake, surrounded by snow-covered trees, creates a tranquil setting that is the very essence of a perfect winter scene. 

Safety Tip: Always make sure you have the proper gear, carry a map and let someone know where you’re going if you travel solo.

If you're looking for alternative transportation up Mt. Hood, check out the Mt. Hood Express for a relaxing trip and avoid driving in winter conditions. The Mt. Hood Express is a public bus operating seven days a week between the city of Sandy and Timberline Lodge & Ski Area with stops up the mountain in between. Seven buses runs daily and one additional late night bus runs during the winter season, December 1 – March 31. One-way fare is $2 and an all-day ticket is $5 with exact change required.

Travel Tip: Buses do not operate on Thanksgiving or Christmas. Mt. Hood Express is frequently at capacity, so it’s always a good idea to arrive early.