OT: Mt Hood Nat'l Forest (and east...)

[AngryScientist]

I have to drive from Portland to eastern Or next week.

I've got a whole day free, is it worth detouring a bit south to drive through Mt Hood area?

Any quick hour or two hikes recommended?

[alembical]

There is still a fair amount of snow up there. Most good hikes are not in good condition right now. Gorge got ravaged by wild fire... then rains. Higher up is in snow.

[tab123]

Can you make it to your destination in eastern OR via Redmond? If so, Smith Rock offers beautiful hiking this time of year. While it has become pretty crowded over the last several years, winters are still not too bad. I can recommend a less-traveled hike if you like.

[semdoug]

Driving up to Hood from Hood River can be a bit time consuming and weather dependent this time of year, so might be a bit sketchy or not worth the time if pressed. There are many trailheads along 84 and on the WA side off 14. There is a nice hike along the Deschutes just off 84.

[pdmtong]

There's a replica of stonehenge in Maryhill
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maryhill_Stonehenge

[bking]

Yeah, I'd stay off the mountain and drive the entire Gorge. It's spectacular especially the first half from Portland. Lots of places to stop

[merlinmurph]

Just curious - where in eastern OR are you going?
That's a really cool ride, the changes along the way are awesome.

[AngryScientist]

thanks for the tips, very good. i'm going to skip hood this time.

headed to Hermiston

[Tandem Rider]

Good call on skipping Hood, my buddy, who knows the road well, just went over it, 4wd with studs was still sketchy.

[nighthawk]

I’d suggest enjoying the drive to Hood River on 84, then crossing the bridge into White Salmon and doing a hike on the WA side... maybe something like Coyote Wall... then crossing back over to finish your drive. Depending on the day... I’d be happy to join you.

[FriarQuade]

Heading thru John Day to see the painted hills and fossil flats is a solid option this time of year. It's a bit of a detour for sure but one of the more unique parts of Oregon. There's great driving roads around there if that's your kind of thing.

[PNW]

thanks for the tips, very good. i'm going to skip hood this time.

headed to Hermiston

Stop at Pfriem for food/beer. That is all. Hood river.