Tomlike Mountain

Overview

Tomlike was the son of Chinidere the last reigning chief of the Wasco Indians and this mountain is named in his memory.


Summit of Tomlike Mountain from the south. Mt. St. Helens in the distance.
Situated just 6 miles from the Columbia River, in the Columbia Wilderness and adjacent to the Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area the views from the summit take in five major Cascade volcanoes and most of the lesser features such as Mt. Defiance, Larch Mt., Indian Mt., Green Point Mt., Nick Eaton Ridge and many more. The summit also affords a unique view directly down into Cedar Swamp on the Herman Creek Trail.

Total distance, round trip from the nearest trailhead is 5.9 miles and with a few ups and downs in the trail the round trip total elevation gain is 1270 ft. This can be also done as a long trail run using the Eagle Creek Trail, the PCT or the Herman Creek Trail to make a very long, but rewarding run/hike.

Most people probably miss the trail junction from the Herman Creek Trail and don't know that there is a passable way up to Tomlike's summit or it would probably be more popular. As it is, you will most likely have this climb all to yourself.

Getting There

From I-84 at Hood River go south though the upper part of town on 12th then 13th St. eventually taking Tucker road which turns into the Dee Hwy. At Dee, cross the railroad tracks passing by the abandoned sawmill, cross the river and turn left at Lost Lake Road. 4 ¾ miles up this road take the right fork marked "Wahtum Lake". After another 4.4 miles take the right fork again. At 14.5 miles from Dee, park in the trailhead parking lot to the right. The road is paved in it's entirety but narrow with turnouts past the second fork.

Red Tape

No permits required except for the usual Trail Park pass needed at the parking area. The entire trail is within the Mount Hood National Forest or the Columbia Wilderness (entered after crossing the gravel road on the trail) so the usual rules apply.

When To Climb

The road will be closed by snow from about November until about May, depending on the year.

Camping

Camping spots abound around Wahtum Lake. Usual wilderness area rules apply.

Mountain Conditions

The trailhead is at about the same elevation as Government Camp so here is the NOAA link for that: Weather

For the nearest town below the mountain, here is the link for Hood River: Weather

Images

View Tomlike Mountain Image Gallery - 23 Images