6. North Lake Loop

2024 Status

This area is currently closed to the public due to the Whisky Creek Fire (August 20, 2024). A portion of the loop was used as a control line for the fire.

Summary

Length                                 8 miles

Difficulty                              Moderate

Season                                Summer to autumn

Elevation range                 3,700 feet – 4,580 feet

Human imprint                   Minimal

Information                        Mt. Hood National Forest, Hood River Ranger District

Primary old growth features

Remote stands of transition old growth featuring Douglas-fir and noble fir.

Description

Taken as a loop this hike offers a mix of forest types and a great mountain-top view. The loop can be taken in either direction, but is described here in a clockwise direction. Follow the Wyeth Trail (#411) to the left from the trailhead. After 3/4 mile or so turn left onto the North Lake-Rainy Lake Trail (#423). An attractive, open stand of old Douglas-fir, noble fir, and Pacific silver fir accompanies you for the first 2/3 mile before giving way to a younger forest. Stay on this trail until reaching a junction on the crest of the ridge.

Time allowing, turn left (south) on the Gorton Creek Trail (#408) for a quarter-mile side trip to Green Point Mountain for a commanding view of Cascade peaks near and far. Otherwise, turn right (north) and follow the Green Point Ridge Trail (#418) until rejoining the Wyeth Trail (#411), 2-1/2 miles later. The last 1/2 mile of this segment is not frequently maintained, and is very steep as you come down off the ridgeline. Turn right on the Wyeth Trail and head south towards a tranquil grove of ancient Douglas-firs and noble firs. Take a short detour to check out North Lake before returning to the trailhead on the Wyeth Trail.

30 years of change

The ridgeline segment of the loop (Green Point Ridge Trail, 418) was used as a control line for the Whisky Creek Fire (2024.) Conditions can not be assesed until the trail reopens to the public.

How to get there

Head south through the town of Hood River (55 miles east of the 1-84/1-205 junction) on 13th Street and follow signs towards Odell. Cross Hood River after 4-3/4 miles, then bear right towards Dee. At a junction 6-1/4 miles later bear right towards Lost Lake Campground. Cross the bridge and turn right on Punchbowl Road towards Rainy Lake and FR 2820. FR 2820 turns to gravel 1-1/2 miles later. Proceed up the gravel road for 9-3/4 miles and park in the parking area signed for the Mt. Defiance trail.