Umbrella Falls – Sahale Falls loop from Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort

If you're looking for an easy, high-reward hiking experience near Mount Hood Meadows, the Umbrella Falls – Sahale Falls loop from Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort is definitely worth your time. This delightful hiking route is rated easy, covering 3.5 miles (5.6 km) with 693 feet (211 metres) of elevation gain, and typically takes about 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for families or anyone seeking a scenic outing without a strenuous climb, offering a perfect blend of waterfalls and alpine beauty.

What to expect on Umbrella Falls – Sahale Falls loop from Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort

The journey begins near the Mount Hood Meadows nordic ski area, offering new and exciting vistas early on, including views up to Lamberton Butte and Mount Hood itself. The trail soon narrows and starts a gentle climb up Newton Ridge, winding through hemlock forests and open fields. You'll encounter sections with switchbacks and some repeated ascents and descents, leading you towards the star attractions: the unique 59-foot Umbrella Falls, which gracefully fans out over a rugged slope, and the tiered 78-foot Sahale Falls, plunging into a clear pool. In July and August, these open fields burst with vibrant wildflowers like lupine, paintbrush, and beargrass, adding a spectacular splash of color. While rated easy, some parts can be steep, but the overall effort is manageable for most hikers, making it a rewarding experience for those who appreciate dual waterfalls and diverse alpine scenery.

Planning your visit

This loop starts conveniently from the Mount Hood Meadows Ski Resort, making parking straightforward. The best time to visit is during summer, particularly July and August, when the meadows are alive with wildflowers and the weather is typically pleasant. While no specific permits or timed entries are mentioned for this particular loop, always check local conditions before heading out. Arriving earlier in the day can help ensure a good parking spot during peak season.

Trail details

• Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
• Elevation gain: 693 feet (211 metres)
• Difficulty: easy
• Estimated time: 1 hours and 43 minutes