Timberline Lodge to Silcox Hut Snowshoe Hike – Mount Hood
On a clear day, this snowshoe trek above Timberline Lodge showcases expansive views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
distance: 2.6 miles
elevation gain: 1,400 ft.
difficulty: moderate
drive time from Portland: 1 hour 40 minutes
parking pass: none if parking at Timberline Lodge
The Mount Hood Express bus is a great way to get to Timberline Lodge. We drove to Sandy and the bus took us the rest of the way for only $2. Traffic was heavy on the way to the mountain, and chains were required on Timberline Road, so I was very happy to not be driving.
Starting at Timberline Lodge, snowshoers can follow the snowcat tracks for 1.2 miles to Silcox Hut, keeping out of the ski areas.
It’s steep at times, gaining 1,000 ft in one mile.
Silcox Hut, situated at 7,000 ft. elevation, is used year round as a bed and breakfast retreat and a catered dining adventure location. It’s also a popular wedding location. Learn more on the Timberline Lodge website.
The trail continues past Silcox if you want to push further. We crossed under the Palmer Lift and continued for a short distance, with Mount Hood looming large directly above.
From up here, the views stretch all the way to Cascade peaks in Central Oregon.
Above Timberline Lodge, Mount Jefferson stands out on the horizon.
