Mt Hood: McNeil Point & Cathedral Ridge

McNeil Point is a classic Mt Hood Hike, and it should be done by everyone, every year until we hike no more! I dislike the parking crowds at Top Spur so we will start our journey on the less utilized McGee Creek Trail, however we won't necessarily start at the McGee Creek Trailhead (intrigue)! We'll take the Climbers cutoff for the final approach which entails some hand scrambling up a rocky ridge, but nothing too difficult for a NW Wilderness hiker! If time allows (I need to be back at Gateway by 4 pm), we'll continue up Cathedral Ridge to Ho Rock.

Starting at the McNeil Shelter (see picture), we will be above the timberline, so patches of snow can be expected, especially on north facing slopes. Footwear with solid traction will be needed, and micro-spikes and trekking poles may come in handy.

• Elevation Gain: 2800 - 3300
• Starting Elevation: 3500
• Ending Elevation: 6500
• Distance: 10 - 11 miles
• Pace: 2+ mile per hour. 3+ going back down.
• Driving Distance: 100 miles round trip ($10 carpool donation)
• Permits: NW Forest Pass
• Difficulty: Moderate with a difficult section leading up to the shelter
• Dogs: No
• Warnings: Sun exposure, Steep Terrain, Patches of snow, Loose Rock, possibility of some brushy over-grown trail sections on the McGee trail.

We will meet at the Gateway Transit Center on the west side of the ground floor for carpooling. Please arrive at 6:50 am so we can leave at 7:00. I will drive and can accommodate 3 other hikers, past that limit, other drivers will be needed.