Arrived at the trailhead a few minutes before 9 am on Sunday. There is a wire gate that you can open, but be sure to close it behind you. There is a parking area with room for 10-12 vehicles. There were patches of snow, ice and what would become mud when it warmed up later in the day.
The trail follows an old Jeep track bending around the hill. Because it was still in the 30s when we started the hike, the ground was frozen solid.
The old double track is easy to follow 99% of the way, but it doesn't go all the way to the summit, instead skirting below the summit. When it starts to descend, you hike cross-country uphill to the rim, then make your way to the highest point. There's a survey marker and a stick marking the spot.
The views were spectacular! We could see Mount Hood, of course, but also Mount Adams in Washington State. Good view of the Painted Hills if you wander towards the west along the rim.
Afterwards, we stopped in nearby Mitchell for lunch and liquid refreshment at Tiger Town Brewing. They have a Sutton Mountain IPA, but unfortunately they were out of it.
One peak down; five to go. Next up, Black Butte!
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