Bark Outs

Color photo taken in the forest on a hill, looking down towards a group fo interested individuals (dress for fall) gathered around an old growth tree. The tree has a tape measure wrapped around it

You can join Bark on the second Sunday of every month for a guided hike from Portland out to the forest.

Since the beginning, Bark has offered free, monthly hikes to Mt. Hood National Forest and surrounding public lands. We believe that by witnessing the breathtaking Cascade ecosystem and learning about the many threats it faces, we can build stronger advocates for its protection. Volunteer hike leaders are passionate, knowledgeable volunteers who lead hikes about forest ecology, policy, herbalism, social justice, restoration and everything in between!

We encourage people of all skill and experience levels to join us for our monthly Bark Outs. Each hike has a unique design, though most are off-trail and can involve steep climbs, crossing streams and downed logs. The type of terrain covered, physical movements needed, and pace of each hike is included in each hike’s event description. We encourage you to contact us with any concerns or questions you might have in advance of the day of the hike. Call our office! 

Come prepared for a full day hike with water, lunch, appropriate clothing, and hiking boots or sturdy sneakers. Weather on the mountain is unpredictable so rain gear and extra warm clothing is always necessary! We ask that you leave your dog at home. This does not include service animals. We enforce this policy for the sake of our volunteer hike leaders and hike attendees. 

Please check our COVID-19 Fieldwork Safety Protocol for updated information regarding Bark’s mask and carpooling policies. If you would like to arrange to meet up with the Hike Leader near Sandy, Estacada, or Hood River, please contact the Bark office at least a week before the hike.

Learn more about how to get involved by leading Bark hikes!