This spectacular little hike can begin at the Wahtum Lake trailhead or it can begin at the Indian Springs Campground by following a primitive road that allows the visitor to drive much closer to the mountain, and take several miles off the hike.

There are a couple of choices as to where to begin the hike even if you choose to start at the campground. The Pacific Crest Trail #2000 passes through the very unmaintained camp area and you can find the trailhead there. Or you can drive a bit further and park along the road where a barricade blocks you from driving further and hike from there.

The trail follows the old service road used to access the fire lookout that once stood atop Indian Mountain. So, it is very easy to follow even if it is not well maintained. The short hike up this mountain is so worth the excellent views you can enjoy not only at the top but most of the way to the top. Only the last little bit of the trail is in dense forest.

In good weather you can see Mt. Hood and Mt. Jefferson to the south, and Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Rainier, and Mt. Adams to the north.

To the west is the impressive Tanner Butte, looking over Eagle Creek canyon which you see winding its way down to the Columbia River Gorge.

These directions take you from Hood River, Oregon. Whatever direction from which you arrive at Hood River, follow the sign of old US Hwy 30 into town. From the west turn right on 13th Street and follow it up the hill until it merges with 12th. If you are approaching from the east, on US 30, turn left on 9th and follow it up the hill until it merges with 12th. Either way, follow 12th south out of town on what is called Tucker Road or Hwy 281. About 6 miles out of town you will cross the Hood River. Immediately after the bridge, bear right and pass Tucker Park. In about another six miles you need to bear to the right again following signs to Lost Lake. This community is referred to as Dee.

As soon as you cross the railroad tracks, bear left and follow the signs to Lost Lake. This paved road becomes Forest Road 18, and you need to follow it about another 5 miles. Then bear right on Forest Road 13 for another 4 miles. Again, bear right on Forest Road 1310 Forest Road 1310 get a bit narrow in places, especially where it is exposed to the south. Be extremely cautious while driving this section of the road and stay away from the cliff side. Continue on FR1310 for about another 6 miles to the trailhead parking area at Wahtum Lake.

At this point, turn left and follow the graveled FR660 up the hill away from Wahtum Lake. For the next couple miles, always bear right at junctions. You will follow this poorly maintained road down a steep hill and across a saddle then back up to a ridge line. Almost unnoticed, you will see a poorly maintained road drop off to the right and down a steep slope. Do not take this road to the campground.

If however, you choose to not begin your hike on the PCT, don't drop off FR660, but continue on until you come to a split in the road. Bear right and park in front of the barricade, as you will be walking up this abandoned road to Indian Mountain.

Click on the link below to see a map taking you to the trailhead.

Map Directions Vicinity Map To contact the Mt. Hood NF for current information: Click Here.