West Zigzag Mountain via Zigzag Mountain Trail #775
9.9 mi
Distance
4 hrs 23 min
Time
terrain
2,940 ft
Elev Gain
Overview
This is a difficult out and back trail to West Zigzag Mountain in Mount Hood National Forest.
Rate this Hike
★★★★★
Very rewarding hike from the base of the mountain, just a mile or so from the community of Zigzag, to the old site of the lookout. Total elevation gain of about 3,200 ft and a round trip of 10.6 miles makes for a strenuous, but rewarding test. Beautiful views of the surrounding peaks and the occasional glimpse of Mount Hood along sections of trail make for a pleasant hike. Most of the hike is in the shade of the old growth forest and the trail is in very good shape. Total of 4 other hikers seen on a Sunday afternoon.
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Public Tracks
West Zigzag Mt., Mt Hood NF, OR
The hike from the community of Zigzag just off US Highway 26 to the site of the of the former lookout tower on West Zigzag Mountain involves an elevation gain of 3,000 feet and proceeds mostly under a tree canopy through dense foliage of salal, Oregon grape, and rhododendrons. The reward is spectacular views of the forested Cascades to the south, and, on one brief section of trail, of Mount Hood to the north. It's a little-used trail; every foot or two, spider strands or entire webs crossed the trail. On an August Saturday when Ramona Falls and other nearby trails would be crowded, only one other person was on the trail.
