[pct-l] MT Hood and North - LOCAL????

[trackus at teleport.com (Mark Wiltrakis)]

Duane -

August-September would be a very undesirable time to consider a "hike" to
the summit of Mt. Hood from Timberline Lodge. Snow and rock conditions will
be very hostile. Optimum timing is in May. There is no "trail" to the top,
and this is not a walk to attempt without solid mountaineering skills. For
sure, under best conditions, crampons and rope would be essential safety
accessories. There are many very scenic trails in the area at lower
elevation. If you have enough time, consider the "around Mt. Hood trail"
which you can access at Timberline Lodge (6000 feet elevation). It is 41
miles and 10,000 feet of elevation gain and loss to see the whole mountain -
by no means a cakewalk, but worth the effort for very good scenery.

Mark