Vista Ridge trail begins by following an old road for a few hundred feet before entering the woods. After half a mile, a wilderness entry station and the abandoned Vista Ridge Scenic trail are reached; continue right. The trail then traverses the hillside and dips into a small ravine before climbing the ridge at a moderate grade. Shortly after Mount Hood comes into full view, the junction with the Timberline trail is reached.

The trail features strands of Mountain Hemlock and occasional views of the Pinnacle to the east and Mt. Hood to the south. In addition, the trail provides one of the shorter access routes to the Timberline trail. At this intersection, several other popular destinations are easily accessible including Elk Cove, Barret Spur, Eden Park, Cairn Basins and Wy'east Basin.

Directions: From Hood River, Travel south on Highway 281 for approximately 13 miles. Turn right at the sign for Dee/Lost Lake. Immediately bear left, following signs for Lost Lake. After eight miles, turn left onto Road 18 (Lolo Pass) and continue for an additional three miles. Turn left again on road 16. After 5.5 miles, turn right onto Road 1650 and follow to the trailhead. Caution: the last 0.5 mile of road is very rough.

Distance: 2.7 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

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