Lookout Mountain Loop Hike

Overview

At well over 6,000 feet, Lookout Mountain is much higher than most of the smaller peaks that surround Mount Hood. The added elevation brings broad meadows, expansive views, alpine wildflowers and ancient whitebark pines to the scene. The view of Mount Hood, just seven miles to the west, is from a unique perspective that gives reveals the massive bulk of the mountain. From the trailhead, cross the gravel access road, then begin following the dirt road that once lead to the High Prairie Guard Station and the summit lookout, and now serves as the return route for this loop hike. Immediately watch for a trail splitting off the the right, and follow this route throw the sprawling lower meadows of High Prairie. Soon, the trail reaches the western scarp of Lookout Mountain, then follows the shoulder of the peak through stunted forests until reaching the first open slopes of red cinders, craggy rock pinnacles and expansive views of Mount Hood. The East Fork of the Hood River flows through the huge valley 3,000 feet below. Soon, the trail curves around the south face of Lookout Mountain, and reaches the Divide-High Prairie West Trail Junction. Continue climbing past the junction for a few yards to the rugged western summit of Lookout Mountain. From this rocky outcrop, the views extend up and down the Cascades, though the broad east face of Mount Hood dominates the scene. From the west summit, follow the trail along the summit ridge through rock gardens and stands of ancient mountain hemlock and whitebark pine. Soon, the trail rejoins the old access road, the Divide-High Prairie East Trail Junction, in a small saddle. Follow the old road uphill as it curves around the true summit of Lookout Mountain, and views of the Badger Creek Wilderness unfold to the south. Pass another junction, this time with the Divide Trail, that heads down the east face of Lookout Mountain, en route to Flag Point. Stay on the old road for a few more yards until you reach the summit, with it’s weathered building foundations of the former loo

Trail Stats

Photos

400px-LookoutMountainMap

400px-LookoutMountainMap

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250px-LookoutSummit

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250px-Polemonium

250px-SummitWhitebarkPine

250px-SummitWhitebarkPine

400px-HoodSummitView

400px-HoodSummitView

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