Mirror Lake Trail #664

The trailhead for Mirror Lake Trail #664 is located at the west end of the Mt. Hood Skibowl Ski Area, conveniently accessible from Highway 26. The trailhead was relocated in 2018 and now features a new plaza with restrooms. Parking is available at the trailhead. During winter, a Sno-Park permit is required for parking.

While there isn't a specific hiking permit for the Mirror Lake Trail #664 itself, a Sno-Park permit is required for parking during the winter season. As the trail is located within the Mount Hood National Forest, standard forest regulations apply.

The section of the trail leading to Mirror Lake is generally considered moderate and family-friendly. It involves a steady, moderate climb over 1.9 to 2 miles, gaining 460 to 700 feet in elevation. The first 1,000 feet are paved and barrier-free, making it accessible. Beyond the lake, the trail to Tom Dick and Harry Ridge becomes significantly more challenging and is not recommended for beginners or young children.

The trail is popular year-round. For the most pleasant hiking conditions and clear views of Mt. Hood's reflection, late spring through early fall (May to October) is ideal. In winter, it transforms into a popular spot for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing, but requires good navigational skills as it's not maintained for winter travel.

The primary attraction is Mirror Lake itself, famous for its stunning reflections of Mt. Hood on clear, calm days. The most iconic reflection views are often found at the southwest corner of the lake. Along the initial path, you'll wind through a mixed evergreen forest with various wildflowers. For those continuing beyond the lake, the ascent to Tom Dick and Harry Ridge offers expansive panoramic views of Mt. Hood, Mount St. Helens, Mount Adams, and the surrounding wilderness.

The most common route to Mirror Lake is an out-and-back trail. However, a narrower, 0.4 to 0.5-mile trail allows hikers to circumnavigate the lake itself. For a longer, more challenging experience, you can continue past the lake to Tom Dick and Harry Ridge, which is also an out-and-back extension.

The terrain varies. The first 1,000 feet from the Mirror Lake Trailhead are paved and barrier-free, switchbacking down to Camp Creek. After this, it becomes a dirt path with several bridges, winding through a mixed evergreen forest with a steady, moderate climb to Mirror Lake. Beyond the lake, the trail to Tom Dick and Harry Ridge becomes significantly rougher, narrower, and steeper, especially the last 200 yards which are very rocky.

Yes, the Mirror Lake Trail #664 is generally dog-friendly. However, dogs should be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers. Always remember to pack out any waste.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Mirror Lake Trail, Pioneer Bridle Trail, and Mirror Lake Trail #664.

For the most stunning reflections of Mt. Hood in Mirror Lake, aim to visit on a clear, calm morning. The early hours often provide the stillest water, minimizing ripples and enhancing the mirror effect. The southwest corner of the lake is frequently cited as the best spot for these iconic views.