As an avid hiker, I’ve always been drawn to the mesmerizing beauty of Oregon’s natural landscapes. There’s something enchanting about the rugged terrain and the serene wilderness that beckons adventurers like me. Recently, I embarked on a two-day hiking expedition to explore the breathtaking area of Mount Hood’s Cairn Basin and McNeil Point. From the Top Spur Trailhead to the McNeil Point Trail, and Cairn Basin Trail, this journey promised not only stunning vistas but also unforgettable encounters with nature.
Getting to Mount Hood’s Cairn Basin and McNeil Point
McNeil Point and Cairn Basin are located on the northwest side of Mount Hood (almost directly on the opposite side of the mountain from places like Little ZigZag Falls and Tamanawas Falls). There are two ways to access these areas via trails, and they are both very popular hikes in Mount Hood National Forest. One can take the Timberline Trail from Timberline Lodge and connect to the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) and McNeil Point from that trail. The other option is to park at the Top Spur Trailhead (my preferred choice) and take Top Spur to the McNeil junction, roughly a mile from the trailhead.
As mentioned, my journey began at the Top Spur Trailhead. To reach the trailhead by vehicle take Highway 26 to Lolo Pass Road, then follow signs to the trailhead. The road will be bumpy as the pavement ends, giving way to several potholes.
Day 1: Top Spur Trailhead to McNeil Point Dispersed Camping
The adventure began at the Top Spur Trailhead, where anticipation bubbled within me as I laced up my hiking boots and shouldered my backpack. My destination was clear – Cairn Basin, a secluded oasis nestled beneath the towering majesty of Mount Hood. With a map in hand via my GAIA GPS app, and a heart full of excitement, I set off on the trail.
The first leg of the journey was a steady climb through lush, old-growth forests. Towering Douglas firs and ancient hemlocks provided a cooling canopy overhead, while the forest floor was a tapestry of mosses and ferns. The scent of pine and the chirping of birds created a symphony of the senses as I ventured deeper into the wilderness.
As the sun dipped lower in the sky, I knew it was time to find a spot to pitch my tent for the night. Cairn Basin was still a few miles away, and I wanted to be ready for an early start the next day. After a bit of searching, I found a picturesque clearing by a babbling creek. It was the perfect place to set up camp and enjoy a peaceful evening in nature.
Pitching a tent at the base of the mountain
As the day began to wane, I faced the task of finding the perfect spot to pitch my tent for the night. The McNeil Point area offered several suitable dispersed camping areas, each with its unique charm. After a bit of exploration, I settled on a spot near a babbling stream, with the imposing Mount Hood as my backdrop. The soft murmur of the water and the majestic view of the mountain made it an idyllic location.
Pitching a tent in such a remote and pristine wilderness is a rewarding experience. It’s a chance to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and immerse oneself in the tranquil rhythms of nature. The tent became my cozy sanctuary, a place to rest after a day filled with hiking and exploration.
Pitching a tent in a dispersed campground, near water in July, was a lesson learned
Little did I know that the serenity of the wilderness would soon be challenged by an army of relentless foes – mosquitoes. As I attempted to pitch my tent, it felt like a scene from a battle against tiny, bloodthirsty warriors. They swarmed around me, their high-pitched whining filling the air. My only defense was the small bottle of insect repellent I had brought, under the guise of full deet protection. I sprayed liberally and feverishly.
Eventually, I managed to set up my tent and take refuge inside, thankful for the shelter it provided from the relentless assault of the mosquitoes. It was only later that I realized my spray was a natural remedy and deet-free, and I awoke the following morning to several itchy bites that occurred -through- my clothing. Small price to pay for the incredible beauty seen from my glowing tent.
With the tent securely pitched, I emerged once more to enjoy a simple but satisfying meal – a beef stew from Mountain House Adventure Meals. As the sun set behind the trees, I was treated to a mesmerizing display of colors in the sky, painting the landscape and draping the mountain in hues of orange, pink, and purple. It was a magical moment that made the mosquito battle worth it.
Day 2: Cairn Basin Trail and Wildflower Extravaganza
The next day, I continued my journey to the McNeil Point Shelter, then back down the McNeil Point Trail, heading towards the Cairn Basin. The landscape began to change dramatically as I descended into the basin. Gone were the rugged rocky outcrops, replaced by lush meadows carpeted with vibrant wildflowers. This was the moment I had been waiting for, a spectacle of nature that left me in awe.
The Cairn Basin, known for its breathtaking wildflower displays, lived up to its reputation. Blankets of purple lupines, fiery red Indian paintbrush, and delicate white Queen Anne’s lace stretched as far as the eye could see. It was a riot of colors, a visual feast that made the challenging hike more than worth it.
Wildflowers are a vital part of the alpine ecosystem, and the fragile beauty of Cairn Basin is a testament to nature’s resilience. These hardy plants have adapted to the harsh conditions of the high-altitude environment, thriving in the short growing season that the mountain offers. The sight of these blooms serves as a reminder of the delicate balance of nature and the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
I couldn’t resist the urge to capture the beauty of the wildflowers with my camera. Each petal, each leaf seemed to beg to be photographed. I spent hours wandering through the meadows, capturing the essence of this floral wonderland. It was a moment of pure serenity, a connection with nature that is impossible to describe adequately.
Conclusion: A Hiker’s Paradise in Mount Hood
My two days in Mount Hood’s Cairn Basin and McNeil Point areas were a true adventure filled with unforgettable moments. From the rugged trails and the McNeil Point Shelter’s historic charm to the wildflower-filled paradise of Cairn Basin, this journey had it all.
The McNeil Point Shelter, built by dedicated volunteers from the Mazamas, continues to be a sanctuary for hikers seeking refuge in the unpredictable mountain weather. Its rustic simplicity and the sense of community it represents make it a cherished landmark in the region.
Cairn Basin, on the other hand, is a vibrant testament to the beauty of nature’s resilience. The wildflowers that carpet the meadows in a riot of colors are a sight to behold and a reminder of the importance of preserving these fragile ecosystems.
Pitching a tent at the base of the mountain provided a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the tranquility of the wilderness. Despite the presence of pesky mosquitos, the experience was a chance to disconnect from the chaos of everyday life and find solace in nature’s embrace.
In conclusion, Mount Hood’s Cairn Basin and McNeil Point areas offer a hiker’s paradise filled with natural wonders and a rich history. Whether seeking shelter in the McNeil Point Shelter, wandering among the wildflowers of Cairn Basin, or pitching a tent under the stars, this journey is a testament to the enduring allure of the great outdoors. I left with a heart full of memories and a deep appreciation for the beauty of Mount Hood’s wilderness.
The water felt wet as you were crossing it using the stepping stones, seeing the 3 mountain tops in the same frame was impressive. You dropping your backback and groaning loudly was funny, but I’m sure it was a relief to have it off of your back. Watching the tent come together quickly is always fascinating, but after you got up the next morning, I got caught up in the adventure and forgot to take notes, lol. The scree was a challenge and so was finding the tent from up there. Well done.