Mt. Bailey

If your pup is fit enough to bag a peak, consider a hike up the Mt. Bailey Trail. Rising over 8,000 feet into the sky, this majestic mountain is often overlooked due to its taller neighbors. But the epic views from the top and gorgeous scenery on the way up, make Mt. Bailey pawsitively worth a visit. Plus, summiting this peak does not require technical rock climbing skills.

The trail welcomes hikers with a relatively flat walk through a lodgepole pine forest. But before you know it, you hit the incline. As they ascend through the pines and hemlock, your pup’s quads will get a great workout. Stop every once in a while so they can catch their breath and have a drink of water. About a mile from the summit, you rise above the tree line. The trade off for the barren landscape is an impressive snow filled crater. Keep your canine buddy safe and don’t let them near the crater. 

Let your pup know the last mile of the hike is pretty difficult. A path leads you across a rock wall then a final scramble up to another ridge gets you minutes from the top. Hike along the ridge before landing on the summit. Gaze out at the jaw dropping view of Mount Thielsen, Mount Shasata, Crater Lake, and Diamond Lake. Your pooch will feel like a champion for making it up there, and rightly so! Before descending down the trail, snap some photos of you and your pooch with the pawsome background.

A Northwest Forest Pass is required for parking. You can purchase one for the day for $5.00 or get an annual pass for $30.00. Water and restrooms are not available at the trailhead, so be sure to stock up on drinking water before you set off. Bring some trail snacks and a jacket for the summit. This is one hike your dog will neve fur-get!