Mount Hood National Forest in northern Oregon extends from the Columbia River Gorge south across mountains, lakes, and streams, with Mount Hood at its center as the state’s highest peak. Established in 1892 as the Bull Run Forest Reserve, it was enlarged, reorganized, and ultimately given its present name in 1924. The forest retains extensive old growth and includes major protected areas such as the Mount Hood Wilderness and Olallie Scenic Area. Close to Portland, it is among the nation’s most visited national forests, supporting year-round recreation, preserving part of the Old Oregon Trail, and serving as an important protected landscape.