![]() Look closely, and you’ll also be able to pick out the lookout tower on Flag Point, as the far end of the Divide Trail.įor the return trip, you can simply follow the old access road from the Divide-High Prairie East Trail Junction through two switchbacks in forest, than through the expansive upper portions of High Prairie, all the way back to your car. ![]() From the true summit, you’ll be able to spot High Prairie, far below to the north, the big Cascade Peaks lined up along the horizon, and the high desert country of Oregon to the east. Stay on the old road for a few more yards until you reach the summit, with it’s weathered building foundations of the former lookout buildings. Pass another junction, this time with the Divide Trail, that heads down the east face of Lookout Mountain, en route to Flag Point. Follow the old road uphill as it curves around the true summit of Lookout Mountain, and views of the Badger Creek Wilderness unfold to the south. Soon, the trail rejoins the old access road, the Divide-High Prairie East Trail Junction, in a small saddle. From this rocky outcrop, the views extend up and down the Cascades, though the broad east face of Mount Hood dominates the scene.įrom the west summit, follow the trail along the summit ridge through rock gardens and stands of ancient mountain hemlock and whitebark pine. Continue climbing past the junction for a few yards to the rugged western summit of Lookout Mountain. Soon, the trail curves around the south face of Lookout Mountain, and reaches the Divide-High Prairie West Trail Junction. The East Fork of the Hood River flows through the huge valley 3,000 feet below. Soon, the trail reaches the western scarp of Lookout Mountain, then follows the shoulder of the peak through stunted forests until reaching the first open slopes of red cinders, craggy rock pinnacles and expansive views of Mount Hood. Immediately watch for a trail splitting off the the right, and follow this route throw the sprawling lower meadows of High Prairie. ![]() The view of Mount Hood, just seven miles to the west, is from a unique perspective that gives reveals the massive bulk of the mountain.įrom the trailhead, cross the gravel access road, then begin following the dirt road that once lead to the High Prairie Guard Station and the summit lookout, and now serves as the return route for this loop hike. The added elevation brings broad meadows, expansive views, alpine wildflowers and ancient whitebark pines to the scene.
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