Although this hike is gorgeous and culminates at a cool old stone shelter, it has some tricky trail nuances and requires a map and consultation, both available at the Mount Hood Information Center. The trailhead is not far from Ramona Falls, making this is a nice follow-up to that hike. (Between the two hikes, you can camp at the McNeil Campground.)

Start at the Top Spur Trailhead. A half-mile up the hiking trail, take a right on the Pacific Crest Trail and keep right, continuing up the trail to a four-way intersection. Views of Mount Hood—and in June, a spectacular wildflower display—will greet you.

The remaining 3 miles contain some twists and turns (essentially, you’re skirting Bald Mountain) that need cartographic clarification from the Forest Service. Your reward will be breathtaking above-timberline views of the Mount Hood National Forest. This excursion is 4 miles each way and is tame enough for weekend warriors. Just start early enough to give yourself sufficient daylight.

Getting to McNeil Point

To reach the McNeil Point trailhead from U.S. 26, turn north onto Lolo Pass Road at Zigzag and follow it 4 miles. Veer right onto Forest Service Road 1828 and proceed 13 miles until you reach the Top Spur Trailhead 785.