This trail enters the 47,160 acre Mt Hood Wilderness Area that is part of the National Wilderness Preservation System. Hidden Lake itself is more of a pond but still a pleasant destination. A more demanding hike or equestrian ride could be made by combining Hidden Lake with a section of the Pacific Crest Trail and Paradise Park Trail which has its terminus only a ½ mile down the road from Hidden Lake. Hidden Lake Trail follows the forested ridge east of Zigzag Canyon, climbing almost 2800’ to reach the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail No. 2000 in 5 miles.

Regulations & Leave No Trace Information: ?? Wilderness Permits are required between May 15 and Oct 15, but are free and self-issuing at a permit box station on the trail. ?? Group size is limited to 12. Stock are counted in the group size. For example, 3 people each riding their own horse plus a spare horse in the group for packing would make a group of 7. ?? Unproccessed livestock feed is prohibited, preventing non-native plant spread. Leave No Trace Principles ?? Plan Ahead and Prepare Be Considerate of Other Visitors ?? Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces Leave What You Find ?? Dispose of Waste Properly Minimize Campfire Impacts ?? Respect Wildlife Noxious weeds have taken a small hold in the Mt Hood Wilderness. To prevent from bringing non-native plants into the forest, clean your animal, trailer, truck and gear before leaving home. A few days before your trip, change your stock over to processed feed and only allow it to graze in weed free pasture.

Basic Directions