Timberline Trail
~4 days · 39.7 mi · hard · Loop
Quick facts
What the Timberline Trail is known for
The Timberline Trail encircles Oregon's Mount Hood near tree line, known for its wildflower meadows, glacier-fed stream crossings, and continuous views of the peak.
Elevation profile
Elevation ranges from 3,376 ft to 7,241 ft over 39.7 mi. Measured from OSM geometry (approximate).
- Uphill 19.4 mi · 49%
- Downhill 13.5 mi · 34%
- Flat 6.8 mi · 17%
Ridgefold breaks every route into uphill, downhill, and flat — see the full per-day breakdown in the app.
How hard is the Timberline Trail?
On the Ridgefold Difficulty Index, the Timberline Trail scores 40/100, a relative rating across the 569 trails we've mapped, blending distance, elevation gain, and steepness. It is a comparison within our set, not an official rating.
Best season & permits
Season: Late July through September.
Permits: No permit required; a self-issued wilderness form is used at trailheads.
Official trail & permit info
Always confirm current conditions, closures, and permit rules with the managing authority before your trip.
Frequently asked questions
How many days does the Timberline Trail take?
Most backpackers hike the Timberline Trail in about 4 days (3 nights out) over its 39.7 miles, though pace varies with fitness and conditions.
How much elevation gain is on the Timberline Trail?
The Timberline Trail climbs roughly 11,873 ft total — about 299 ft per mile, topping out near 7,339 ft.
When is the best time to hike the Timberline Trail?
Late July through September.
Do you need a permit for the Timberline Trail?
No permit required; a self-issued wilderness form is used at trailheads.
Related trails
Sources & attribution
Route geometry and stats derived from OpenStreetMap (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL) — source relation. Stats are approximate and may differ from official surveys; permit rules and conditions change — verify with the managing authority before your trip. Last reviewed July 2026.