This excellent hike is listed as difficult because of the vigorous climb that is required to reach the junction of the Mazama Trail and the Timberline Trail. Nevertheless this adventure is worth every muscle aching, lung gasping, mosquito infested step of the way..... only kidding, its really not that bad, and it truly worth whatever effort required to reach Cairn Basin in summer or fall.

I say fall, because I've included some photos of the area taken in the fall, which will show you just how beautiful that season is at Cairn Basin.

Back to the hike.... So, after you've parked your comfortable SUV at the spacious trailhead parking lot, the trail wanders mostly level for a bit, kinda giving you a false sense of what's ahead. Soon you reach the Forest Service sign in "booth" and you're on your way. The trail begins by climbing abruptly through a large rocky area. Here you get lots of views of the surrounding area, especially the shrinking size of that SUV you left behind at the trailhead.

The only significant difference in the trail environment as you climb the Mazama Trail is altitude. You will wander in and out of dense forests, Rhododendron lined pathways, and Avalanche Lily gardens.... if the season is right. Otherwise you just wander.

After reaching the Timberline Trail, bear left and follow the trail another half mile to Cairn Basin. In season the trail passes through incredible fields of Paintbrush, Lupine, and other alpine flowers that can leave you with an entire roll of pictures of just flowers. There are also lots of views. Other than one of the most superb views of Mt Hood, there are many vistas that you will want exposed on your camera's collection format; ie film or CCD.... anyway you look at it or photograph it, this hike is truly worth it.

By the way, the Mazama Trail is named after the outstanding organization that does a true labor of love by maintaining this trail in excellent condition! If you know a member, thank them.

Follow US 26 three miles east of the Mt Hood Information Center in Welches. Turn left (north) on the Lolo Pass Road (Road 18) at Zig Zag (across from the Zig Zag Pizza). Follow this road to Lolo Pass which is about 9 miles. Then turn right onto the gravel portion of this highway. Follow the gravel road for about 4 miles and it will turn back into a paved road. It is at this point, that you bear to the right and drive up Road 1811 until you reach the well marked trailhead for the Mazama Trail up Cathedral Ridge.

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.