Hiking
Trip Ideas
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Hikes in the Zigzag Ranger District (70220 U.S. 26 E., Zigzag, 541/666-0704 or 503/622-3191 from Portland) are an excellent introduction to the wealth of recreation options in the Mount Hood National Forest off U.S. 26. Whether you’re driving the whole Mount Hood Loop (U.S. 26–Rte. 35–I-84) or just looking for a nice day trip from the Portland area, the Zigzag District’s relatively low elevation and spectacular views of the state’s highest mountain can be enjoyed by neophyte hikers or trail-wise veterans.
If you’re coming in from the west, stop at the Mount Hood Information Center (65000 U.S. 26 E., Welches, 541/622-4822 or 888/622-4822, www.mthood.info), located in the Mount Hood Village Resort on the south side of the highway. This facility will help you get your bearings with a wealth of pamphlets and an information desk. Pick up the free Forest Service flyer “Mount Hood Hikes.”
Trails
by Judy Jewell and W. C. McRae from Moon Oregon, 8th Edition, © Elizabeth & Mark Morris and Avalon Travel
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Moon Travel Guides make independent travel and outdoor exploration fun and accessible. With expert and adventurous travel writers delivering a mix of honest insight, first-rate strategic travel advice, insider travel tips and an essential dose of humor, Moon Travel Guides ensure that travelers have an uncommon and entirely satisfying experience. Each travel book is filled with unique trip ideas, easy-to-use maps, and detailed information on sights, restaurants, and accommodations. Moon Travel Guides not only point you in the right direction, they inspire new ideas and adventure. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach trip to Hawaii, or an adventure travel trip to the rainforests of Costa Rica, Moon guidebooks—and Moon.com—are with you every step of the way. Founded in 1973, the Moon Travel Guides series includes Moon Handbooks, Moon Outdoors, Moon Metro, Moon Living Abroad and Moon Spotlight travel books. Moon is based in Berkeley, California and is a proud member of the Perseus Books Group.