How to Drive Oregon's Mt. Hood Scenic Byway
Oregon's Mt. Hood Scenic Byway stretches 105 miles around Mt. Hood. The 3-hour drive takes travelers through forests and valleys, along rivers and waterfalls, and crosses paths with history. Recreation awaits in the rivers, on ski slopes and along hiking paths for anyone wanting to spend the day pursuing adventure in the area.
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Instructions
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Begin in Troutdale. Go antique shopping in the downtown district or visit one of the museums. Head south on state Highway 26 to begin your drive on Mt. Hood Scenic Byway.
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Pull over at the Johnsrud Viewpoint. Look out over the Sandy River and the Devil's Backbone, a ridge along Mt. Hood once used by pioneers to cross the mountain.
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Travel alongside the Sandy River and enter the Mt. Hood National Forest. With over a million acres, the National Forest offers many activities for travelers including fishing, hiking and boating.
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Take in a part of history at the old Oregon Trail, Barlow Pass and the Pioneer Woman's Grave. Hike a portion of the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail, which extends 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada.
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Head north around the eastern side of the 11,245-foot Mt. Hood. Stop and take a 2-mile hike to the 100-foot Tamanawas Falls.
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Continue north on Interstate 35 to Panorama Point. Take in views of Mt. Hood, Hood River Valley and Columbia River Gorge from the point.
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End your drive on the scenic byway at the Hood River County Historical Museum located at 300 E. Port Marina Dr. in Hood River.
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Tips & Warnings
Water recreation is available in the Sandy River and Hood River. Spend an afternoon of fishing, boating or wind surfing.
Year round skiing is available on Mt. Hood at the Timberline Lodge.
Inclement weather can cause parts of the road to close. Call the Mt. Hood National Forest at (503) 668-1700 before traveling.
