Nestled in the alpine forests of the Mount Hood National Forest, the Mirror Lake Loop is a great getaway for hikers of all levels. This 4.4-mile hike takes you through a classic Pacific Northwest landscape, where the air is crisp, and a dense forest canopy shades the path. At the lake, you'll encounter the tranquil waters of a pristine glacial tarn, famous for its picture-perfect reflection of Mount Hood's snow-capped peak. Whether you're navigating the beautifully crafted wooden boardwalks or enjoying a peaceful picnic along the shoreline, this hike provides a perfect, family-friendly dose of Mount Hood's beauty.

Trail Stats

• Distance: Approximately 4.4 miles (out and back trip including loop around lake)
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 900 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate with some switchbacks
• Duration: 2 - 3 hours
• Best Season: Spring through Fall (Some areas may be inaccessible in the winter due to snow)
• Kid Friendliness: Due to mild climbing and distance, this hike is recommended for kids 7 and older.
• Dog Friendliness: Dogs allowed, but must remain on leash.

Trail Description

This trip begins at the Mirror Lake Trailhead, located just off Highway 26 near the Skibowl West parking area. The trail starts out as a paved trail but quickly switches to a proper dirt path after a few hundred feet. The first mile is generally flat and is marked by 9 small footbridges. This section takes you through a wonderful canopy of second-growth Douglas fir, western hemlock, and vine maples. In early summer, you'll find excellent displays of wild rhododendrons and beargrass. For the second mile (after the ninth footbridge), the trail begins to climb, eventually leading to a set of 4 switchbacks up to the glacial cirque of Mirror Lake.

At the lake, turn left to begin a clockwise loop around the water's edge. This half-mile perimeter trail features a series of rustic wooden boardwalks designed to protect the fragile wetland ecosystem. From the southern shoreline catch Mirror Lake's classic postcard shot: Mount Hood reflected on the shimmering surface of the water. Continue along the boardwalks to the eastern shore and find primitive campsites, and lakeside lunch spots. Adventurous hikers can check out the Tom, Dick and Harry Mountain Trail for an extended hike up to the ridge.

After completing the half-mile loop around the water's edge, you will rejoin the main trail at the original intersection. From here, your return trip is a smooth, gravity-assisted 1.9-mile descent down the forested switchbacks, following the same path back to the parking area.

Recommended Gear

In Winter and Early Spring, mud and snow may be present along the trail.

• Durable Footwear
• Day Pack
• Hydration System
• Hiking Poles

Driving Directions

From Downtown Portland (Approx. 90 minutes)

• Take I-84 East toward the Columbia Gorge.
• Take Exit 16 for 238th Drive toward Wood Village, and follow signs south to connect with US-26 East in Gresham
• Take US-26 East for 37 miles toward Government Camp exiting at the Mirror Lake Trailhead, (immediately before the Skibowl ski area).

Parking Fees

• May 1 through October 31: a $5 day-use fee or a Northwest Forest Pass is required to park at the Trailhead.
• November 1 through April 30: a $4 day-use Sno-Park Permit or an annual Sno-Park Permit is required to park at the Trailhead.

More Information

• Mount Hood National Forest | Mirror Lake Trail #664 – Real-time updates, trail conditions, alerts, fees and restrictions.
• Camping - Dispersed camping is allowed in the Mount Hood National Forest, and the forest service has a few established hike-in campsites near Mirror Lake. Amenities like water and restrooms are not available at any of the sites. People interested in dispersed camping should become familiar with the Forest Service's rules and guidelines for dispersed camping.
• Winter Recreation - While the Tom Dick and Harry Mountain summits may be inaccessible during the winter, the trail to Mirror Lake is a popular snowshoe trail.