While back in Europe and even in the middle of the Alps right now, for the 5th episode of my Monday Mountains I turn back to the Pacific Northwest and to magnificent Mount Hood. For some more information about this stratovolcano and more photographs of the mountain I took over the last weeks, mostly from airplanes, continue reading after the jump….
Mount Hood, situated about 50 miles east-southeast of Portland, is part of the Cascade Range and with 11,239 feet (3,426 m) the highest peak in Oregon in the Pacific Northwest of the USA. It is a stratovolcano (aka composite volcano), which, according Wikipedia, is a conical volcano built up by many layers (strata) of hardened lava and volcanic ash. Stratovolcanoes are characterized by a steep profile and periodic explosive eruptions and effusive eruptions, although some have collapsed craters (calderas). Mount Hood is potentially still active and considered the Oregon volcano most likely to erupt. The last major eruption was in 1782, the last minor one in 1907. Mount Hood features 12 glaciers and can be skied year round. About ten thousand climbers attempt to reach the summit each year. Hikers can circumnavigate the mountain on the 41mile Timberline Trail.
The photo directly above I took while approaching PDX airport, all other ones were taken on a flight from Portland to Los Angeles. Based on my experience it is advisable to sit on the left hand side of the plane if you want to see the mountain. Then I also included the shot I took while driving a car across the Columbia River Bridge on I5.
I’m really fascinated by this majestic volcano and I’m really looking forward to take a closer look on a day trip from Portland during one of my next visits to the Rose City. I hope you liked this episode of Monday Mountains.
Have a great week!
Marcus
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