Elk Cove Trail #631 sets off into the Mount Hood Wilderness from Elk Cove Trailhead, in the Hood River Ranger District. The lot fits 10 to 12 cars. There are no amenities, so bring water and anything else you need for the day.
From Hood River, take Oregon Highway 35 south to the town of Mount Hood, then Highway 281 (Cooper Spur Road) to Parkdale. Clear Creek Road leads south to Laurance Lake Road (Forest Road 2840), which runs west to Laurance Lake and Kinnickinick Campground. Just beyond, leave the pavement and follow Forest Road 2840 south about 1.1 miles. A high-clearance vehicle is strongly recommended.
Getting there
- From Hood River, OR take Oregon Hwy 35 south 15 miles to the town of Mount Hood.
- Turn right at Oregon Hwy 281 (Cooper Spur Rd), near milepost 85, and travel 2 miles to the town of Parkdale.
- From the center of Parkdale, go south on Clear Creek Road (across from McIsaacs Store) and travel approximately 2.7 mi to Laurance Lake Road (Forest Road 2840).
- Go right (west) on Laurence Lake Road approx 4.2 miles to Kinnickinick Campground at Laurance Lake.
- Just west of Kinnickinick Campground, leave the pavement, turn left and head south onto Forest Road 2840 for approximately 1.1 miles to the trailhead starting at Forest Road 2840-650.
From the Forest Service
Rules and restrictions
Wilderness restrictions apply.
All fees
No fees are required for this site
No fee required.
Passes and permits
Free, self-issued wilderness permits are required from May 15 to October 15 if provided at a portal.
Season details
June
