Frog Lake, nestled in the scenic Mt. Hood National Forest, offers a delightful snowshoeing experience that’s perfect for all skill levels. To get started on this Showshoeing Adventure at Mt. Hood’s Frog Lake, head to the Frog Lake Snow-Park Trailhead. The trailhead has a designated snow-park area where you can park your vehicle. It’s essential to have a valid Oregon Sno-Park Permit displayed on your dashboard. The parking lot is well-maintained, but remember, it’s a multi-use area, so expect to see snowmobiles and ATVs sharing the space.
Tubbs Flex Snowshoes – Snowshoeing Adventure At Mt. Hood’s Frog Lake:
On this Snowshoeing Adventure at Mt. Hood’s Frog Lake, we decided to break in our new Tubbs Flex Snowshoes. Here’s how they performed.
- Ease of Use: The quick grip bindings made it incredibly easy to slip into our snowshoes without hassle, even in the cold. This feature was a significant upgrade from our previous experiences.
- Design: These snowshoes are narrower than the Costco Alptrek models we’ve used in the past. The narrower design not only made for a more comfortable hike. The Tubbs Flex Snowshoes also reduced the risk of tripping or the shoes rubbing against each other.
- Flexibility: The Flex Tail platform on the Tubbs snowshoes flexes from heel to toe. This allowed for a natural walking gait, which was particularly beneficial on packed snow.
- Traction: The traction rails provided excellent grip. These rails were crucial on the semi-packed trails of Frog Lake where snowmobiles had already passed.
The Hike – Snowshoeing Adventure At Mt. Hood’s Frog Lake:
- Distance: The round trip to Frog Lake and back is under 3 miles, making it an ideal short hike for a day out. My Garmin fenix 6 Sapphire tracked our hike in at 2.75 miles and 190 ft total ascent.
- Scenery: Walking across the frozen Frog Lake was a highlight. It offered breathtaking views of Mt. Hood against the backdrop of the clear winter sky.
- Social Aspect: We met some friendly ice fishers, campers, and were fascinated by a group using a sauna tent for warmth, which shows how versatile this spot can be. We took a moment to enjoy some local Old Trapper Beef Jerky, a perfect snack for such an outing.
Tips for your Adventure:
- Layering: Dress in layers. The temperature and weather can fluctuate, and you’ll warm up quickly with the activity.
- Sun Protection: Even on cloudy days, the snow reflects UV rays, so sunscreen is a must. This sunscreen is a great option because it is a skin balm that protects against cold, chapping and windburn.
- Safety: Always check weather conditions before heading out. Inform someone of your plans and expected return time, especially in winter conditions.
Wrapping up your day at Ratskeller:
After a crisp day out snowshoeing at Mt. Hood, nothing beats the warm welcome of The Ratskeller. This local favorite is the quintessential spot to wrap up your adventure with some hearty fare and cozy vibes. The ambiance here is laid-back. You order your food at the bar, find a spot among the wooden tables, and wait for your meal to be delivered to you. It’s this unpretentious style that make it feel like you’re among friends.
For those craving something substantial after a day in the snow, the menu doesn’t disappoint. Burgers here are thick, juicy, and grilled to perfection, while the pizza offers that satisfying crunch with toppings that cater to all tastes. Of course, no meal after a day in the snow is complete without a good beer, and The Ratskeller has a selection of draft beers that pair wonderfully with their food offerings and 16 oz can’s starting at just $3.
Ratskeller is family friendly, one of the highlights for those with kids or kids at heart is the arcade upstairs. Eating at Ratskeller is more than just refueling; it’s about embracing the end of a day filled with outdoor adventures. It’s the place where you can recount the day’s highlights over a slice of pizza or a burger. The Ratskeller encapsulates the spirit of Mt. Hood’s winter charm, making it an ideal conclusion to a snow filled days.
Recapping our Adventure:
Frog Lake is not just a spot for snowshoeing; it’s a community hub where adventurers share stories, warmth, and the love for the great outdoors. Our Tubbs snowshoes proved to be a wise choice, enhancing our experience with comfort and reliability. Whether you’re a seasoned snowshoer or trying it for the first time, Frog Lake promises a memorable adventure with its stunning views and serene winter landscape. Remember, respect the trail by staying aware of others, particularly the motorized vehicles, and enjoy the unique blend of nature and community this place offers.
P.S. Don’t forget to stop at the Ratskeller, I promise you won’t be disappointed. Happy Adventuring, Switch Back Valley
Looking for another adventure in the Mt. Hood Area:
Check out this post, less than an hour from the Frog Lake Trailhead – stopping here might just get your heart pounding before heading into the National Forest!
