Great Hikes for Kids: Mount Hood (Wy’East), Oregon
Cascade Streamwatch Trails
Pass needed at trailhead: America the Beautiful Interagency Pass or pay an entrance fee
Easy
5 miles or shorter with various loops
Elevation gain: 40 feet
Located in the Wildwood Recreation Area, this public treasure is run by the BLM, with a series of loops and trails running through 580 acres of old growth forest beside the pristine waters of the Wild and Scenic Salmon River. You’ll find a wide variety of eco-systems with interpretive signs along boardwalks and wide paths, some paved and wheelchair and stroller accessible. The main not-to-miss attraction is the Cascade Streamwatch viewing pavilion, a fantastic underwater view of Sixes Creek, a salmon spawning creek where you can watch fingerling salmon hang out and feed. Don’t miss this place! Open spring to early fall, pets on leashes allowed. https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Cascade_Streamwatch_Loop_Hike
Old Salmon River
Pass needed at trailhead: Northwest Forest Pass
Easy
5 miles round trip out and back
Elevation gain: 200 feet
2.5 hours
The Salmon River is pure and primal and a designated Wild and Scenic for its entire 33 mile length. In some sections it pools lazily and in others it slams violently against canyon walls, smashing down steep waterfalls making it famous among professional kayakers as the ‘Mount Everest of Oregon kayaking.’ This hike offers the sweeter side of the Salmon River and is a lovely ramble filled with the sound of water moving over rocks. Near the turnaround after 2.5 miles there is a great beach in the shade of cedars, perfect for a picnic before returning. https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Old_Salmon_River_Hike
Lost Lake Loop
Easy
3.2 mile loop
Elevation gain: 60 feet
1.5-2 hours
A fabulous hike for kids, with a level trail and little elevation gain, a number of fishing piers, and a lake to play in. You can rent canoes, kayaks, fishing boats and paddleboards at Lost Lake Campground. Lost Lake is said to be one of the most photographed lakes in Oregon--at the north end Mount Hood (Wy’East) is reflected shimmering and formidable in the still water, exquisite, especially at dawn and dusk. There are a few primitive campsites a short distance up the Huckleberry Mountain Trail turnoff making an easy backpacking opportunity. https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Lost_Lake_Loop_Hike