I agree it felt quite relaxed as a two day climb. But I have to say it was funny when I poked my head out of my tent at 3am and saw dozens of head lamps coming up the lifts knowing they probably got up at 1am or 2am and I could sleep till 8am if I really wanted too, and still hit the summit before noon. With the overcast skies and mid 20's temps, falling ice wasn't a factor that day in the gates.
I actually enjoy carrying gear and making day trips into overnights. A night spend on the side of hood is better than a night in the city. Or a parking lot.
In that case let me recommend Illumination saddle as the best place to camp on the south side of Hood. It's an extremely aesthetic spot that puts you away from the usual climbers' boot path but still makes for an easy summit day.
wow Oregon snowpark system beats Washington hands down. 3 day permits available, transferable between vehicles, work in Ca and ID as well. Thanks Randy for the links.
I climbed Mt Hood 3 times back in the late 80's. All 3 climbs were in April, was not to crowded and waited for a clear stretch of weather. The first time we camped at Illumination Saddle with a short climb to summit. The second time we slept in the car and planned on a 1 day summit bid, but the weather turned and we made it to just below the Hogs back before turning around with white out conditions.
The third time we camped just under the top of chairlift cabin and then climbed to the summit from there.
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