Eightmile Loop Trail to Fivemile Butte Lookout

The Eightmile Loop Trail is an easy hike that generally takes around 1 hour and 43 minutes to complete. This duration can vary depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the views at the lookout.

Yes, the Eightmile Loop Trail is rated as easy and is well-maintained and marked, making it suitable for families and even young children. The trail features gently graded switchbacks, offering a pleasant experience for those new to hiking.

The trail offers diverse terrain, leading you through old-growth pine forests, including Ponderosa pines, Douglas fir, and western hemlock. You'll also pass through meadows that burst with wildflowers in season and follow sections of Eightmile Creek. Be aware that some sections may have blowdowns. The highlight is reaching the summit of Fivemile Butte.

The primary highlight is the historic Fivemile Butte Fire Lookout, a 40-foot tower built in 1957. While the very top is often locked, you can climb the stairs for excellent views. In the fall, particularly early to mid-November, the trail is famous for its spectacular display of golden western larches.

From the Fivemile Butte Lookout, you'll be rewarded with expansive panoramic views of Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and Mount Hood. It's also known for offering stunning sunrise views.

The trail is beautiful in different seasons. Spring and summer offer wildflowers, while early to mid-November is ideal for witnessing the striking golden yellow western larches. In winter, access to the lookout often requires skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling due to road closures.

Yes, access to the trailhead for the Eightmile Loop Trail often requires a Northwest Forest Pass. You can find more information about purchasing passes on the USDA Forest Service website.

The trailhead for the Eightmile Loop Trail is typically accessed within the Mount Hood National Forest. Parking information and specific directions can often be found on the Recreation.gov website or the local Forest Service office.

Yes, the Eightmile Loop Trail is generally dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is on a leash and that you follow all local regulations and Leave No Trace principles.

In winter, the trail transforms into a snowy landscape. Access to the Fivemile Butte Lookout often requires skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling due to road closures. Be prepared for colder temperatures and snow-covered terrain.

Yes, the route primarily follows the Eightmile Loop Trail #496. It also includes sections that overlap with Forest Road 1720-120 and Forest Road 1720-122, as well as a portion of 4400-126.