|
|
|
|||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
         
 Reporter |
Summary: This is a a great hike for the energy spent - the most elevation and views I've gained with the least amount of effort. Continue past Mirror Lake south up the back of Tom Dick and Harry Mountain. There are no switchbacks - just a mile long trail that climbs fairly graduallyaround to the west side of the hill then cuts back and heads north-east to get you to the top. There are a few minor challenging spots, but when you see the rock pile at the top, crest, then see Mirror Lake below you and Mt. Hood splayed out magnificently before you, you'll pinch yourself and wonder how you got so lucky as to see that 360 with so little effort. The day we went up it was cloudy, so we only got glimpses of the mountain, and only a few ridges to the south. But on a clear day the views would be nothing short of spectacular for 360 degrees. One word of caution - you could get close to some several hundred foot drops - use your head. Continue down the ridge a bit for some exploratory fun. Trailhead: This is the same trailhead as Mirror Lake. If you've driven over Mt. Hood you've seen the trailhead - it's on the right or south side of the road as you go east on a big bend just before Ski Bowl. It's a few miles above Rhododendron and just 2 or 3 miles below Government Camp. Mt. Hood is only 50 miles from Portland. A Northwest Forest pass is required to park at this trailhead. Buy the annual pass for $30.00 - otherwise pay $5.00 for a day pass. At the Mirror Lake Loop trail, take a right, then another right a few hundred yards up the trail on the south end of the lake - the ridge trail is not marked, but it's the only one off the loop trail anywhere on the lake. (Lat:45.30631 Lon:-121.7917) Trail Guides for Tom Dick and Harry Mountain, near Mt. Hood: Pacific Northwest Hiking 1000 Hikes in OR and WA by Ron C. Judd and Dan A. Nelsen (Avalon Travel Publishing) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Mt. Hood National Forest Info Center, Welches, OR 503-622-7674 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Steve Snyder, who has posted 13 other hikes on this site Trail Reviews Page 1 of 3 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by walt on 6/27/2009 This is a great hike to show visitors. I love it
Reviewed by Heye on 6/20/2009 A fun place to view vistas and nature such as different species of plants, trees and birds and animals. Listen for a PIKA, a earless rabbit with a high pitch squeak near talus the slopes. If diligent, you may see them calling or dashing among the rocks collecting flowers for their food cache. The lower half of the trail to Mirror lake is suitable for introducing small children to hiking and nature. The upper half leading to Tom Dick and Harry for older children. However if you are physically able to carry your young child in a child backpack for a incredible family experience. Pack a lunch for the top. Familiarize yourself with the trail by reading reliable trail guides. Don't forget to bring the essentials, AND a camera. 
Reviewed by Scott on 5/25/2009 Just hiked yesterday...wasn't expecting much snow but the path was snowy all the way to the lake (somewhat slippery at times). Not too much elevation, 2 or 3 switchbacks. Nice shady trail throughout. Lake was covered with snow except for a couple of parts. Beautiful scenery once you get to the lake. Couldn't find Tom and Dick mountain trail (too much snow?)...all in all, with 2 pre-teen boys, was great family outing (lunch by the lake was spectacular!!
Reviewed by Sam on 3/9/2009 Hiked it a few summers ago on a bluebird July afternoon. Mount St. Helens, Adams, Hood, Jefferson, and the Sisters were all very visible. The most rewarding day-hike I've ever enjoyed. Great for families, especially because Mirror Lake is on the way (perfect lunch spot/bailout for youngsters). Watch out for loose rock on the upper switchbacks. Bring plenty of film!
Reviewed by MTC on 9/7/2008 Just hiked this this weekend and it was a great hike, not too hard but hard enough to make you feel like you earned something and one of the better views at the summit then many (with Mt. Hood right at its doorstep). Didn't see too many people walking up but quite a few at the top, not great if you are looking for a private hike. The trail is marked at this point after you get there making it easier to find. Note: To get to trailhead park on the side of the highway immediately after the 'big bend', if you get to Ski Bowl (or action park in the summer) you've gone too far. 
Reviewed by Lisa B. on 7/22/2008 We did this hike on July 20th. Would do this hike again as the view at the top was wonderful! Before the smoke of the California fires moved in we were able to see Mt. St. Helen's, Mt. Adams and Jefferson? To top it all off we witnessed a young man wearing a "Joey Ramone" t-shirt propose to his girlfriend while pictures were taken!!
Reviewed by Ben C on 7/13/2008 Great hike during the summer, would not like to do it during the winter withour the proper gear. Great place to take dogs, some fishing available. Beautiful view of Hood, St. Helens, Adams, Jefferson and Rainer. A must see.
Reviewed by BDub on 6/25/2008 Did this hike back in the beginning of april, a friend and I snow shoed in and blazed our own trail. Took no time at all. Not for your average hiker though. We knew where to go because we did this hike during the summer last year. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Oregon Hiking, Oregon Trails, Oregon Hikes, Clackamas County Hiking, Clackamas County Trails, Clackamas County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||