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Zigzag Canyon Overlook

On a beautiful day I drove to the Government Camp area. My first stop was Trillium Lake to take some shots of Mt. Hood reflected in the lake.

Next, I drove to Timberline Lodge at 5,900 feet. After putting on the daypack and grabbing the camera, I went to the Pacific Crest Trail, a short distance above the Lodge.

I soon left the PCT and climbed 1,000 feet up the side of the mountain to the beginning of the Palmer Lift. Then it was time for some exploring. I headed west across the glacial moraine and some small snow fields before reaching the side of Little Zigzag Canyon. From there it was a 1,200-foot descent to the PCT.

I then circled the mountain to the northwest, crossing the Little Zigzag Canyon along the way. The summit of the mountain and its glaciers were easily visible from the Trail.

Once reaching the overlook of Big Zigzag Canyon, I took a break and enjoyed the surroundings. The entire stretch of Mississippi Head, a large basalt rock formation, towered over the Canyon.

Mt. Hood over Trillium Lake

Sitka Mountain Ash

Mt. Jefferson with the Three Sisters nearby (Is he taking a selfie?)

Alpine Lupine

Cat’s-ear Lily

Skier at the bottom of the Palmer Run

Bottom of the Palmer Run

Starting the Palmer Lift

ENd of Magic Mile Lift and beginning of Palmer Lift

Palmer Run below summit of Mt. Hood

Palmer Ski Area on Mt. Hood

Looking down on Timberline Lodge with Mt. Jefferson in background

Mississippi from Zigzag Canyon overlook (Beargrass in bloom)

Mt. Jefferson above Trillium Lake

Whitebark Pine (highest growing tree on the mountain)

PCT (looks like sand but it’s much finer volcanic ash)

Hikers on the PCT coming out of Little Zigzag Canyon

Long look down to Government Camp

Alpine Scenery