Bottom of the scramble trail to McNeil Point (Jerry Adams)

• Hikes including this location:
  • McNeil Point Hike   (TH | <—   —> | LOG)
  • Cairn Basin from Top Spur Hike   (TH | <—   —> | LOG)
  • Timberline Trail around Mount Hood Hike   (TH | <—   —> | LOG)
• Weather forecast: NWS/NOAA
• Maps: Oregon Hikers Maps Google Maps
• Latitude, Longitude: 45.39685, -121.73720
• Elevation: 5330 feet

Description

The lower, shorter, steeper trail to McNeil Point is about 3.3 miles from the Top Spur Trailhead if you take the recommended route across the south face of Bald Mountain, or 2.7 miles if you go behind Bald Mountain. This unofficial trail is unmarked, and you'll find it after the 4th switchback (right, left, right, left) beyond the saddle above the McNeil Lower Viewpoint.

This trail is often called the "scramble" trail, and that name fits. It's unofficial and rough, and it requires that you use your hands a bit. On the other hand, the official McNeil Point Trail, also called the "upper" trail, is well-maintained and provides an easier alternative; continue northeast on the Timberline Trail to reach it. (Many people who are willing to brave the scramble trail do a loop: up the hard way, down the official trail.)

If you're headed to Cairn Basin, stay on the main trail.

Guidebooks that cover this destination

• 60 Hikes within 60 Miles of Portland, by Paul Gerald

More Links

Page Contributors

• Splintercat (Tom Kloster) (primary)
• User:retiredjerry