McNeil Point

McNeil Point is an alpine promontory on Mount Hood's northwest flank, originally planned as part of the Timberline Trail but abandoned when terrain proved too unstable. A stone shelter had already been built by the CCC, though, and the off-trail scramble to reach it has been a favorite destination for generations of Portland hikers.

The route starts at Top Spur, climbs through mixed mountain hemlock forest onto the Timberline Trail, and then breaks into a series of alpine meadows — Bald Mountain views, Muddy Fork canyon vistas, and ever-larger looks at Mount Hood's west face. The final climb to McNeil Point is steep and loose, with footing that demands attention, but the reward is a stone shelter perched on an open ridge with views straight up the mountain and down to the Muddy Fork glacial valley.

Late July through September is prime. Earlier in the season snow lingers in the meadows and the final scramble can be dangerous. A Northwest Forest Pass is required at Top Spur and a self-issued wilderness permit is needed to enter the Mt. Hood Wilderness.