Standing at 11,245 feet, Mt. Hood is the highest point in Oregon and a powerful symbol for the Pacific Northwest. It was also crowned one of Oregon’s 7 Wonders. The now-dormant volcano is believed to have been formed 11 to 14 million years ago and is home to 12 glaciers and the source for five rivers that run into the Columbia. The Mt. Hood Scenic Byway takes visitors on a majestic route around the edge of this iconic landmark, being exposed to some of the state’s most stunning scenery and sought after recreations destinations. 

Length	105 miles
States	1 – Oregon
Astronomy Sites	5

Cooper Spur

Cooper Spur is the snow and ice covered back stretching down from the summit of Mount Hood towards the northeast. Available from the road and Mt Hood loop, the hike can be difficult due to the rocks, but due to its location, it has an amazing views of the surrounding landscape. The lack of surrounding cities and its relative remoteness means this provides Cooper Spur with an amazing opportunity to view the night sky.

Government Camp

An unincorporated community on the base of Mount Hood and north of Tom Dick and Harry Mountain. Government Camp is the only town within 5 miles of Mount Hood. Government Camp is located near great places to view the night sky such as Clear Lake and Timothy Lake that one can view the nights sky and Milky Way!

Timberline Lodge

Constructed during the Great Depression from 1936 to 1938, Timberline Lodge is a mountain lodge on the south side of Mount Hood in Clackamas County, Oregon, roughly 60 miles east of Portland. Timberline Lodge and the road leading there provide some amazing opportunities for dark sky photography. For those who are adventurous, going onto Mount Hood to find some secluded and dark sky spots are definitely an option. The road should be clear in the summer months of snow, but in the winter months, the roads can be snowy and driving requires caution. But the views are great as the increased elevation allows for amazing views of the surrounding areas and night sky.

Trillium Lake

Trillium Lake is a wonderful state park in the Mount Hood for recreation, camping, and astronomy. The campground is quite popular and is not far from the quaint town of Government Camp. The lake and area a great, family-friendly place to camp, with fishing and boating and hiking being popular daytime recreation activities. at night, the view of Mount Hood to the North provides an amazing backdrop for astronomy photos, such as when the aurora borealis is visible.

Lost Lake Resort

Primarily used for its extensive outdoor areas, Lost Lake Resort also provides a great degree of amazing astrophotography opportunities! It has become more popular over the past few years due to its visibility on social media platforms, so get there early! As the Portland area grows, this area has seen an increase in light pollution. This site has been become more popular due to Instagram and other social media sites sharing the photo from here! With Mount Hood in the background, this is an amazing spot for the Milky Way and the mountain to create a memorable photo!

Make sure to follow us on Twitter and Instagram, and make sure to view our other unique astronomy roadtrips such as this one for more places to view astronomy when on a roadtrip.