| About Mount Hood National Forest |
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| Oak Ridge Trail |
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Trail Number:
688A
Difficulty:
Moderate
High Point:
3,700 Feet
Length:
2.3 Miles
Low Point:
1,900 Feet
Reservation:
No
Season:
April - October
From Hood River, Travel south on Hwy. 35 for about 16 miles to Smullin Road (one mile past Hood River Ranger Station). Turn left on Smullin Road and follow it until it takes a sharp turn to the south (right). Take the dirt road to the left. Trail begins about 1/4 mile up road. Vehicles with horse trailers may wish to consider parking on Smullin road near the trailhead sign.
Location Information
Oak Ridge Trail ascends Oak Ridge via a series of switchbacks passing through open grassy slopes and stands of Oregon White Oak. In some areas the trail is rocky and horseback riders should use caution. After the first mile, the trail enters mixed oak and fir and eventually the oak is left behind. New the top of the ridge, the trail crosses Road 1700640 and a few hundred yards beyond joins Surveyors Ridge Trail #688. Bald Butte (3,780') is 1.8 miles to the north, and Rimrock (site of fire lookout, 4,300') is 2.3 miles to the south. The trial features views of Mt. Hood as well as Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier and the Hood River Valley. It is also a top choice for an early season hike as visitors can enjoy a wonderful display of wildflowers (Lupine, Balsam Root, Indian Paintbrush, etc.) that cover the hillside from mid-April through June.
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