Hawk Mountain via Rhododendron Ridge Trail #564(edit)

Overview

This is an easy out-and-back hike to Hawk Mountain in the Mt. Hood National Forest. The trail starts out in an area burned in the 2020 Lionshead Fire. Wildflowers bloom here in June and and July, including beargrass, penstemon, and lupine. The trail passes through a short section that was also burned in the 2021 Bull Complex Fires. Then the descends and enters an area of unburned forest. Cross a creek then reach the junction with the side trail up to Hawk Mountain and turn right.

The trail ends at the summit of Hawk Mountain. The three-legged fire lookout that was built in 1919 is no longer there, but the cabin that served as living quarters still stands. It is open for the public to explore and even sleep in, but you'll be sharing it with mice. From the cabin there is a great view of Mt. Jefferson.

Getting Started

There is parking along the shoulder of the road at the trailhead. There is no toilet or other facilities.