Mt. Hood Climbing Permit Pass

Mt. Hood National Forest

Mt. Hood, the namesake of the Mt. Hood National Forest, is a volcanic peak with 11 glaciers. It's the highest point in Oregon at 11,240 feet in elevation. The upper mountain lies within the Mount Hood Wilderness. Mt. Hood attracts an estimated 10,000 climbers annually.

Mt. Hood is a technical climb and requires planning. Consider climbing mid-week for reduced crowds. Please visit the Mt. Hood National Forest website for important Mt. Hood climbing information.

• A Mt. Hood Climbing Permit is required for all travel above 9,500 feet in elevation in the Mount Hood Wilderness. Wilderness Regulations apply.
• A 3-day permit is $20, and an annual permit is $50 per person. Each climber is required to purchase their own permit.
• Permits are not limited and therefore cannot sell out for any given day. There is no need to purchase your permit until the day of your climb.
• Some trailheads require a day use fee. View a list of available Recreation Passes that may be used in lieu of day use fee payment.
• Oregon Sno-Park permits are required November 1st to April 30th annually at all Sno-Parks, including all Timberline ski area parking lots and the Tilly Jane Sno-Park.
• Permits are non-transferable, non-refundable, not replaceable if lost or stolen, and are void if altered or reproduced.

For trailheads without cellular coverage: The 3-day permit is available for purchase on site using a credit card through the Recreation.gov mobile app. You will need to download the free Recreation.gov mobile app prior to your arrival. Once on-site, follow the posted Scan & Pay instructions. For more information about paying on-site without cellular coverage, click here: How Do I Use a QR Code to Purchase an Activity Pass? 

BE PREPARED

• All routes are technical climbs requiring crampons, ice axe, other climbing equipment, and training.
• Climbers should bring equipment for self-rescue and extended stays on the mountain due to weather or incident.
• The upper mountain is a remote location. The Forest Service does not provide rescue services. Emergency responders may need hours or days to reach you, especially if your location or the weather would create an unsafe situation for rescuers.
• Human waste pack-out bags are required and available at the Climbers Registration area at the Timberline ski area and the Zigzag Ranger Station.

KNOW THE CONDITIONS

• Mountain conditions can change quickly based on weather, time of day, and elevation. Choose your objective based on conditions and change your objective if conditions change.
• Hazards can include but are not limited to rockfall and icefall, avalanches, icy snow conditions, crevasses and fumarole holes, poor visibility, wind, and cold.
• The Mt. Hood Climbing Rangers , the Northwest Avalanche Center , and the National Weather Service all provide critical condition and weather information.

KNOW YOUR ROUTE

• Difficulty and appropriate climbing equipment vary widely between Mt. Hood's many climbing routes. Ensure your equipment and skills match your route.
• Your ability to stay on route, particularly in poor visibility and while descending, is crucial for your safety. Bring a map and compass and know how to use them. On the south side, a compass bearing due south from Crater Rock will lead you back to the Timberline ski area.

HAVE A BACKUP PLAN

• Before you leave home, notify a trusted friend where you intend to go, what emergency equipment you are carrying, and when you expect to return. Tell them to call 911 if you are more than a few hours late.
• Use caution when faced with adverse or unexpected conditions. Your decisions, not emergency responders, are the best resource to ensure you live to climb another day.
• Plan for notification: Ensure your cell phone, navigation, and emergency communication devices are charged. Know how to use them.
• Prepare for survival: If a rescue is initiated, help may be hours to days away. Proper supplies and actions to stay warm, stay dry, stay fed, and stay hydrated are necessary for survival in this harsh mountain environment.