Bald Butte via Oak Ridge Trail & Surveyor's Ridge Trail

This trail is generally considered moderate to strenuous due to its significant elevation gain and length. The initial climb on the Oak Ridge Trail is particularly steep, gaining about 850 feet per mile to the ridge top. While challenging, the rewarding views make it worthwhile.

You'll encounter diverse terrain, including open meadows, heavily wooded mixed forests, and areas with Oregon White Oak transitioning to fir and pine at higher elevations. The trail features numerous switchbacks, especially on the ascent, and crosses logging roads. The Oak Ridge Trail portion is steep, while the Surveyor's Ridge Trail generally follows a ridge with a mix of climbs, descents, and flatter sections.

The most spectacular highlight is the panoramic view from Bald Butte, offering unobstructed vistas of the Hood River Valley and prominent Cascade volcanoes like Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Rainier. You'll also find sections with recently logged clear-cuts that provide fantastic views of Mount Hood, especially when wildflowers are in bloom.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but for vibrant displays of wildflowers like Lupine, Balsam Root, and Indian Paintbrush, plan your visit from mid-April through June. It's an all-season trail, though snowshoes are necessary for winter excursions.

Yes, dogs are generally allowed on trails within Mount Hood National Forest. Please ensure your dog is kept on a leash and that you practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all waste.

As this trail is located within Mount Hood National Forest, you may need a recreation pass depending on the specific trailhead and parking area. It's always best to check the official USDA Forest Service website for the most current permit requirements before your visit. You can find more information at usda.gov.

Specific parking details for the Bald Butte via Oak Ridge Trail & Surveyor's Ridge Trail trailhead are typically found near the starting point of the Oak Ridge Trail. Look for designated parking areas within Mount Hood National Forest. Arriving early, especially on weekends, is advisable to secure a spot.

Yes, this route primarily utilizes the Oak Ridge Trail (#688A) and the Surveyor's Ridge Trail (#688). You will also encounter sections of Forest Road 1700-630 along the way.

Beyond the truly spectacular, unobstructed views from Bald Butte, a unique aspect is the shared use of the Surveyor's Ridge Trail by mountain bikers. This often results in a well-maintained path. The vibrant display of wildflowers during spring and early summer also adds significantly to its charm.

You're likely to see a variety of wildflowers, especially from mid-April through June, including Lupine, Balsam Root, and Indian Paintbrush, in both forested and open sections. As for wildlife, keep an eye out for common forest animals, though specific sightings are never guaranteed.

This specific route, "Bald Butte via Oak Ridge Trail & Surveyor's Ridge Trail," is designed as a loop, combining sections of the Oak Ridge Trail and Surveyor's Ridge Trail to bring you back to your starting point.