One Hike at a Time

Article and photography by John Gaudette

elcome to “One Hike at a Time,” a new perspective on walking, hiking, and exploring the beautiful outdoors in and around Portland, OR. Most of our adventures are day trips, and often include side trips for good food and drink.

We moved to the Portland area from central Florida a little over two years ago. As avid hikers and explorers we enjoy the ability to get out and explore the beauty that surrounds us in Oregon. Being a professional photographer I know that the northwest offers great opportunities to photograph some of the best scenery in the world.

In this article our activity is a slight deviation from hiking. Since it is the middle of winter, we turn to cross-country skiing. Cross-country skiing is a great way to spend a day away from the city, and get some great exercise in a winter wonderland.

A favorite spot of ours is Trillium Lake, situated three miles east of Government Camp on Highway 26.

The trail is a five-mile groomed loop, which traverses beautiful terrain, circumnavigating Trillium Lake. The first 1/4-mile is a quick drop (beginning skiers may want to walk this portion); after the descent the trail is gentle, with easy ups and downs. The best route is to the right, going counterclockwise around the lake.

After a short jaunt you break out of the woods into a beautiful snow-covered meadow, which is part of the historic Barlow Trail. As you near the end of the meadow, there will be a faded sign on a pine tree to your left. Below is a small picket fence (which may be buried in the snow), marking the graves of three pioneers, two of whom were infants. The first was buried in 1847, the second in 1882. The third person buried there is Perry Vickers, Mount Hood’s first Alpine Guide. Perry built Summit House and was the host to thousands of settlers as they made their way to their final destination of Oregon City. Perry was one of the Barlow Trail’s first murder victims. On the right side of the trail are markers that will connect your cell phone to some audio about the trail and the meadow; the only caveat is that cell service is spotty at best.

Upon leaving the meadow, the trail turns to the left and traverses through a small group of rental cabins called Trillium Lake Basin Cabins. The cabins are “ski in and out” A-Frame rentals. Information about the rentals can be found at www.trilliumlake.com.

As you progress along the trail, the trail narrows with some nice ups and downs. As you exit the tree line the lake appears to your left. On a clear day there is a beautiful view of Mount Hood. Just ahead on the east side of the lake, you will cross the dam and see a picnic bench, a great stopping point for a picnic lunch. Many times you will see birds wintering along the lake. Be sure to stay off the lake; the snow pack can be deep, and the ice may be thin.
As you continue, you will find access to the summer camping area. Typically ungroomed, the short side trail is worth the effort. It brings you to the summer boat ramp; along the water’s edge is a great place to capture an image of Mount Hood.

The last mile has a few ups and downs. It’s a fun way to finish the loop and prepare for the final climb to the trailhead. Be sure to stay to the right on your assent, to avoid collisions with skiers coming down the hill.

On your way back to Portland, just after you reach the four-lane section of Highway 26, in Rhododendron, next door to the Dairy Queen, you will find Mount Hood Coffee Roasters (www.mthoodroasters.com). Mount Hood Roasters is listed on the National Geographic Map of Mount Hood destinations. They roast and blend all their own coffee, and it is a favorite stop of ours for a mocha or latte for the ride home.

To get to Trillium Lake from Portland, take I-84 east to Exit 16 (Wood Village), turn right on 238th Drive, continue on 238th as it turns into 242nd, turn left on E Powell Boulevard (Highway 26), and travel approximately 40 miles just past Government Camp. The parking lot will be on your right, marked with a “Snow Park” Sign. First, purchase a Snow Park Pass. Be sure to have your Snow Park Pass visible.

To view more images visit Gaudette’s website at www.nwphotographix.com.