Mirror Lake Trail Mount Hood National Forest Oregon
Capture the iconic reflection of Mount Hood on Mirror Lake, a moderately challenging trail offering stunning PNW views year-round.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, clear views
Mirror Lake Trail Mount Hood National Forest Oregon
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, clear views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Capture the iconic reflection of Mount Hood on Mirror Lake, a moderately challenging trail offering stunning PNW views year-round.
"The lake was disgusting, def not something to swim in, which we were over prepared to do."
🚗 Parking Lot Caution
Be aware of your surroundings; glass from broken car windows has been reported in the parking lot. Never leave valuables visible. 🚗
🥾 Trail Difficulty
This trail is more intermediate than beginner. Expect rocks and roots, and be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
Quick Facts
Rating
3 · 2 reviews
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mirror Lake Reflection
Mirror Lake
Capture the iconic reflection of Mount Hood on the calm surface of Mirror Lake. A truly breathtaking sight, especially on clear days.
Mount Hood Views
Various points along the trail
Enjoy stunning, unobstructed views of Mount Hood, a majestic stratovolcano that dominates the landscape.
Winter Snowshoeing
Mirror Lake Trail
Experience a serene winter wonderland with snowshoeing opportunities offering a peaceful escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Mirror Lake
Trail Conditions & What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Lot Caution
Be aware of your surroundings; glass from broken car windows has been reported in the parking lot. Never leave valuables visible. 🚗
🥾 Trail Difficulty
This trail is more intermediate than beginner. Expect rocks and roots, and be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 Lake Swimming Advisory
The lake can have slime and algae; it's not recommended for swimming. :noentrysign:
❄️ Winter Permit Required
A Sno-Park permit is necessary for winter access between November and April.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Lot Caution
Be aware of your surroundings; glass from broken car windows has been reported in the parking lot. Never leave valuables visible. 🚗
🥾 Trail Difficulty
This trail is more intermediate than beginner. Expect rocks and roots, and be prepared for uneven terrain. :athletic_shoe:
🚫 Lake Swimming Advisory
The lake can have slime and algae; it's not recommended for swimming. :noentrysign:
❄️ Winter Permit Required
A Sno-Park permit is necessary for winter access between November and April.
📸 Capture the Reflection
For the best reflection shots, visit on a clear day with calm winds.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mirror Lake Trail offers stunning Mount Hood reflections and beautiful scenery, particularly in fall and winter. However, visitors should be aware that the trail is more intermediate than beginner, the lake is not suitable for swimming, and restroom facilities can be quite poor. Parking can also be an issue, with reports of car break-ins.
"Was really looking forward to this hike after reading all the words of praise. However, this hike was more intermediate than beginner. It is not for all levels as many described. Trail is well kept, lots of rocks and roots but, there isn’t a cliff side which is nice. The lake was disgusting, def not something to swim in, which we were over prepared to do. There was some sort of slime, algae, and crawfish everywhere. The view from
The pictures is only available if you round the lake, which is not exactly a trail. You will get wet, whether you want to or not. Than bathrooms we BEYOND disgusting. Like the worst I have ever seen, and my list of trail bathrooms is extensive. I’m not even sure what in the world could happen in there to have them in that state. Parking is okay, it’s at the beginning of ski bowl.. there was lots of glass in the parking lot from broken windows. Usually it goes without saying, but you should never leave valuables in the car and visible. Overall, I will never go on this hike again. Kids broke down, couldn’t swim, and was an absolute overall bust."
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elisabeth greene
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mirror Lake Trail is located in the Mount Hood National Forest, about an hour's drive from Portland, Oregon. Take US-26 E towards Mount Hood. The trailhead is near Ski Bowl, and parking is available.
Public transport options to Mirror Lake Trail are limited. It's best to have a car. If you're relying on public transport, consider ride-sharing services or organized tours from Portland.
Parking is available at the trailhead, which is located at the beginning of Ski Bowl. However, the lot can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
During winter months (November through April), a Sno-Park permit is required for parking. Outside of winter, standard recreation passes may apply depending on the season and specific area regulations.
Yes, it's possible to combine Mirror Lake with other nearby attractions like Multnomah Falls or Trillium Lake for a full day trip from Portland, but plan your route and timing carefully.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no direct entrance fee for Mirror Lake Trail itself. However, a Sno-Park permit is required for parking during the winter season (November to April).
Mirror Lake Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access and conditions vary significantly with the seasons.
No advance booking is required for Mirror Lake Trail. However, due to its popularity, arriving early is recommended to secure parking, especially during peak times.
A Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass is generally accepted for day-use parking in many areas of Mount Hood National Forest. Check current regulations for specific requirements.
During winter, a Sno-Park permit is mandatory. Always check current weather and trail conditions before your visit, and be aware of wildlife.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Mirror Lake Loop trail is approximately 4.2 to 4.4 miles long, depending on the exact route taken.
The trail is generally considered moderately challenging due to its rocky and root-filled sections, making it more intermediate than beginner.
Swimming in Mirror Lake is not recommended. The lake can contain slime, algae, and crawfish, and is not suitable for recreational swimming.
You can expect stunning views of Mount Hood, especially on clear days, with the iconic reflection of the mountain often visible on the lake's surface.
Restroom facilities are available, but reviews indicate they can be in very poor condition. It's advisable to be prepared for this.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the 'golden hours,' offers the best light for capturing the reflection of Mount Hood. Clear, calm days are ideal.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain views and lake. A polarizing filter can enhance the reflection and reduce glare.
The main viewpoint is directly at Mirror Lake, offering the classic reflection. Exploring slightly around the lake's edge can provide unique perspectives, but be mindful of trail conditions.
Fall offers vibrant foliage, while winter provides a serene, snow-covered landscape. Summer brings wildflowers. Each season offers a different photographic appeal.
Visit on a weekday or during the shoulder seasons (early spring or late fall). Arriving very early in the morning or later in the afternoon can also help.
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