Mt Hood: Lamberson Butte/Gnarl Ridge & Elk Meadow

This classic Mt Hood hike will take us up Gnarl Ridge to Lamberson Butte for spectacular views of Hood and the Newton Glacier. We'll take a loop around the scenic Elk Meadows, walking and talking lightly so not to disturb any slumbering through hikers. We'll look for the remnants of the Gnarl Ridge shelter, and be awestruck by the survival of ancient, gnarled krummholz sculpted whitebark pine.

• Distance: ~11 miles
• Elevation Gain: ~2700
• Starting Elevation: ~4400
• Ending Elevation: ~6500
• Pace: 2+ mile per hour. 3+ going back down.
• Driving Distance: 120 miles round trip ($12 carpool donation)
• Permits: NW Forest Pass
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult
• Dogs: No
• Warnings: Sun exposure, Steep Terrain, Rushing Water creek crossings. For the crossing of Newton Creek on the Timberline Trail, water shoes and trekking poles will be very helpful, however the actual conditions won't be known until we get there.

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.

A post hike stop for poke bowls and a refreshing beverage may be advisable.