worth staying at the Lodge in the summer for hiking?

We are heading up from the coast to the Columbia Gorge and want to spend one night close to Mount Hood to do some hiking before spending a couple of nights in Hood River. I know that Timberline Lodge is very expensive, but wondering if it is worth the money for one night to be there as opposed to staying somewhere in Government Camp or Parkdale?

Any advice would be much appreciated.

worth staying at the Lodge in the summer for hiking?

Yes, the location is really good for hiking. The Timberline Trail starts right up the path from the lodge and there is beautiful hiking along there.

worth staying at the Lodge in the summer for hiking?

Yes! The Pacific Crest Trail (Canada to Mexico) goes right by the back of the Lodge. It%26#39;s in the midst of glacial terrain--huge rocks and sometimes a scramble, to choose to go north or south for a bit on this historic trail. In the past, I have spent some time near there (camping-wish it had been the Lodge) while more intrepid family members climbed Mt. Hood. I really want to return and stay at the Lodge, but like most who live somewhat nearby, end up waiting too long and it gets booked. Timberline is well worth an overnight.

The Paradise Park Trail, which you can hit from Timberline is wonderful and Timberline Lodge is really a spectacular lodge, however, as a Portland resident, I have never stayed there.

It is easy to stay in one of the outlying areas and drive to Timberline. Gov%26#39;t Camp is about 40 minute from the Lodge.

There are also other spectacular hikes around Mt Hood, one of my favorites being Mirror Lake/Tom, Dick and Harry. There is an easy hike to Mirror Lake and then if you continue on the views are stupendous!

PDXWindjammer--40 minutes? Usually takes us right around 15 in the summer when roads are bare. But I do agree that the Paradise Trail is stunning1

Yeah, that is right. I generally drive it in the winter when there is lots of snow so it may take 20-40 depending on traffic and conditions in the winter.

Yeah, winter conditions are so different. It is only 6 miles.