Despite the funny name, the Tom Dick and Harry Mountain Trail is an awesome hike! Set conveniently across US Hwy 26 from Mount Hood, Tom Dick and Harry Mountain offers one of the best views of the south face of Wy'east (Mount Hood). This trek blends two distinct experiences into one single hike: starting with a scenic forest stroll up to the pristine waters of Mirror Lake, before transitioning into a rugged, wilderness ascent along a dramatic basalt ridgeline. Whether you are navigating the historic wooden boardwalks around the Mirror Lake or scrambling over ancient talus slopes along the ridge, this trail delivers a quintessential dose of Oregon's high-altitude beauty.

Trail Stats

• Distance: Approximately 6.4 miles
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 1,700 feet
• Difficulty: Moderate with substantial climbing
• Duration: 3 - 4 hours
• Best Season: Spring through Fall (Some areas may be inaccessible in the winter due to snow)
• Kid Friendliness: Due to substantial climbing, this hike is recommended for children 13 and over. For younger hikers, check out the shorter Mirror Lake Loop Trail.
• 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 primitive campsites tucked into the trees and 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 until you hit the signed junction for the Tom Dick & Harry Mtn Trail.

Leaving the lake behind, the trail begins a steady, mile-long climb up to the ridge. Look out for small, squeaking pikas and views of Mount Hood in the occasional boulder fields along the way. As you near the top of the ridge line, you'll find a giant cairn (man-made pile of rocks) marking a sharp left turn back along the spine of the ridge.

After the turn, the trail continues to climb along the ridge for another mile, meandering through the thinning pine forest toward the summit. The final quarter mile includes the steepest sections, but don't give up. The pay-off at the top is completely worth it, as the trees fall away to a grand view of Mount Hood. On clear days, you can view Mount Jefferson to the south, and Mounts Adams, St. Helens, and Rainier to the north.

To return to the trailhead, retrace your steps back down the ridge back to Mirror Lake junction, close the final short gap of the lake loop and catch the main Mirror Lake Trail back to trailhead.

Recommended Gear

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

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

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.

Additional Information:

Mount Hood National Forest Official Webpage for Mirror Lake Trail

Mount Hood National Forest | Mirror Lake Trail #664 Real-time updates, trail conditions, alerts, fees and restrictions.

Tom Dick and Harry Summits

Most hikers only make the trip to the first summit (Harry) as this provides excellent views of Mount Hood with no additional effort. Likewise, this trail guide only covers the trip to the Harry Summit, and omits the summits of Tom and Dick. Experienced hikers who are comfortable with route finding or scrambling can continue along the ridge to gain the Tom and Dick. Note, the trail to these two summits is less maintained and not recommended for inexperienced hikers.

Camping

Dispersed camping is allowed in the Mount Hood National Forest, and the forest service a few established hike-in campsite 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 Services 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.