Boy Scout Ridge Snowshoe Hike

Overview

This classic snowshoe trip climbs the west shoulder of White River Canyon, known as Boy Scout Ridge for the nearby Boy Scout lodge. In summer, the ridge forms the route of the Pacific Crest Trail from Barlow Pass to Timberline Lodge. In winter, the snowshoe version of this hike begins along the White River, and climbs 1,800 feet to a soaring overlook of the White River Canyon and Mount Hood. A shorter version of this trip for beginning snowshoers and families ends at the lower viewpoint. This 3.6 mile option avoids a lot of climbing, and has only 800 feet of elevation gain. Begin the trip at the northeast corner of the Sno-Park, following a wide, nearly flat path along the west side of the White River valley floor for 0.4 miles passing a junction with a road coming in from the left. This section is well-traveled in winter, so easy to locate and follow. At the 0.4 mile point, the route reaches a broad, treeless slope known as "The Bowl", and climbs the south ridge somewhat steeply for 200 yards, with the first good views of Mount Hood unfolding ahead. Upon reaching the top of the slope, the route enters open lodgepole forest, and curves around the top of "The Bowl", soon reaching a usually well-defined nordic ski track at a "T" junction. Turn right (north), and follow the track uphill, observing the snowshoer courtesy of walking to the side, where possible, to protect the nordic track. This section of trail is well-marked with silver diamonds all the way to the lower viewpoint. At the 1.6 mile mark, the route drops into a shallow ravine for a short distance before reaching an open bench above the White River at 1.8 miles, beneath the broad, open slopes of Boy Scout Ridge, above. This is the lower viewpoint, and a fine destination for beginning snowshoers or families, with spectacular views of Mount Hood and the White River canyon and a nearby play-slope for kids. To continue to the upper viewpoint, head straight up the steep edge of the tree line on Boy Scout Ridge, to the west, usually following well-defin

Trail Stats

Photos

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