2.3 hr
Overview
Paradise Park is best known for its wildflower displays in July and August, but this hike is a classic mountain trek on many levels. In addition to the mountain vistas and wildflowers, the route passes several waterfalls and offers unique views of the high country south and west of Mount Hood. Though popular, the crowds thin out at the daunting lip of the Zigzag Canyon, and the trail is rarely crowded on weekdays. The trip also has the distinction of beginning at Timberline Lodge, which offers overnight lodging and meals. Head up the steps across from the parking lot area and go right after 20 yards. At a second junction, go right again for the Timberline Trail, Mountaineer Loop Trail, and the Silcox Hut. Cross a small creek and head up on a rubbly tread among mountain hemlock, subalpine fir, and whitebark pine. In late summer the Newberry’s fleeceflower is turning red on the pumice slopes. Reach the four-way Timberline-Mountaineer Trail East Junction and turn left. You'll pass above Timberline Lodge and under chairlifts as the trail gradually descends through meadows. Though the cliffs of Mount Hood are ever-present above, the view also includes Mount Jefferson and the Three Sisters far to the south. When you reach the four-way Timberline-Mountaineer Trail West Junction, keep straight. Cross a draw blooming with partridge-foot, and hike into the small Sand Canyon and then, at 1.2 miles, switchback into Little Zigzag Canyon. You'll arrive at a wilderness permit box and a map board. Pass the Mt. Hood Wilderness sign, and descend in silver fir/mountain hemlock forest to reach the junction with the Hidden Lake Trail (No. 779). There is a campsite (but no drinking water) below the trail just before this junction. There's another campsite (with no drinking water) below the trail in another 0.1 mile. Soon, however, you'll cross a spring by the trail and can admire the lush meadow on the steep slope below. Descend into a deep, dry gully, head up its shady west side in mountain hemlock/silver fir woods and, at 2.2 m
Trail Stats
0.0 km
701 m
0 m
0 m
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Photos
ParadiseParkLoopMap.jpg
ParadiseParkLoopMap.jpg
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