McNeil Point via Top Spur Trailhead

Top Spur Trailhead
4.9
6 Reviews
McNeil Point via Top Spur Trailhead
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Details

Distance
7.17 miles
Elevation Gain
2428 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back

Features

Forest
Wildflowers
Wildlife
Dog Friendly
Scenic
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About this place

Added by Dan Moe

McNeil Point via Top Spur Trailhead is an out-and-back trail with amazing meadow views at Bald Mountain. When you cross the outflow from Glisan Glacier, the meadow provides great campsites.

The hike to McNeil Point begins at Top Spur Trailhead, in the Mt. Hood National Wilderness. Follow signs for McNeil Point along the Pacific Crest and Timberline Trails heading north.

Though there are numerous camping opportunities along the way (most of the route follows the PCT), an old stone shelter greets backpackers at the Point itself, with stunning views of the sun setting over the Coast Range. Wildflowers bloom in July and August.

If you're looking to camp, a great spot is after crossing the outflow from Glisan Glacier. The water flow helps create a lush environment in the surrounding meadow.

PERMITS:

  • A Northwest Forest Pass or an America the Beautiful Pass for parking. 
  • Wilderness permit can be filled out at the trailhead before heading out on your adventure.

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and be sure to follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly.
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Clayton Lukens
7/1/2020
YES!
This was a blast two backpack two summers ago. My dad and I did it and the view you get from the top is worth every step.
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Derek Lemke
7/2/2017
EPIC
Hands down best day hike I have ever done. Hike the extra mile beyond the mc Neil shelter to the black rock. Hiked July ...
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Jason Baker
2/19/2016
Beautiful, but crowded
I absolutely love this place. I visit it many times a year and hike on to the Sandy Glacier Ice Caves. The hike is ...
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Coleman Bright
4/2/2015
One of the most beautiful hikes I've done!
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Kyle Glidden
3/17/2015
Gorgeous views, fresh glacier water, and a cool stone hut built by the Mazama's ages ago.
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Matthew Mychack
1/2/2015
Probably the best hike I've ever been on. The views from the top on a clear day are mind-blowing, and the constantly changing terrain ...
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