Exploring Mt Hood Cabins: Tilly Jane A-Frame

Exploring the Tilly Jane A-Frame on Mt. Hood offers a unique blend of adventure, history, and natural beauty. This rustic cabin, nestled on the northeastern flank of Oregon's iconic peak, has been a cherished haven for outdoor enthusiasts since its construction by the Civilian Conservation Corps in 1939 .

Cover photo credit: Jen Fortin

The Tilly Jane A-Frame stands as a testament to the rich history of Mt. Hood. Originally built as a ski warming hut, it has served as a basecamp for countless adventurers tackling the mountain's challenging northeastern routes. Managed by the Friends of Tilly Jane Cabins , the renovated A-Frame is part of the Cloud Cap-Tilly Jane Historic District. 

Accessing the Tilly Jane A-Frame requires preparation and respect for the mountain's conditions. During winter months, the cabin is accessible via a 2.7-mile trail with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet, starting from the Tilly Jane Sno-Park. This route demands proficiency in backcountry travel, with skis or snowshoes being essential. In summer, a shorter quarter-mile hike from the Tilly Jane Campground leads to the cabin. 

The cabin accommodates up to 20 guests, offering a communal environment that fosters camaraderie among visitors. Amenities are minimal, emphasizing the rustic charm of the experience. Guests should bring necessary supplies, including sleeping bags, food, and cooking equipment. Reservations for Mt. Hood Cabins are required and can be made through Recreation.gov . 

• Backcountry Gear: Skis with climbing skins or snowshoes, avalanche beacon, shovel, and probe. Shop

• Personal Items: Warm clothing, sleeping bag rated for cold temperatures, headlamp , and first aid kit .

• Food and Cooking Supplies: Portable stove , fuel , and all necessary utensils .

For gear rentals and expert advice, Next Adventure's rental program offers a wide selection of equipment suitable for the journey. With four locations to choose from , we have you covered for Mt. Hood Cabins during all four seasons!

Staying at the Tilly Jane A-Frame is more than just an overnight lodging—it's an immersion into the alpine environment. Guests often share stories around the wood stove, plan excursions into the surrounding wilderness, and enjoy the serenity of the mountain setting. Whether you're an avid backcountry skier, a snowshoer, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, the A-Frame provides a memorable escape from the everyday.

While the Tilly Jane A-Frame is a standout destination, there are other rustic shelters and Mt. Hood cabins that offer unique experiences. Exploring these can provide further insight into the region's history and natural beauty.

Embarking on a trip to the Tilly Jane A-Frame is a rewarding endeavor that combines physical challenge with the simple pleasures of cabin life. As you plan your adventure, ensure you're well-prepared, respect the mountain's conditions, and embrace the opportunity to connect with fellow outdoor enthusiasts.

Note: Always check current trail and weather conditions before your trip, and ensure you have the necessary skills and equipment for backcountry travel.

12/17/2016

Conditions: Mid 30's during the day. Lower 20's overnight. Abundant sunshine.

Duration: 2 days/1 night

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Kid Friendly: No

Pet Friendly: No

The Full Report

Tilly Jane cabin is a large A-frame cabin located on the North side of Mt Hood. It is a 2.7-mile hike from the Cooper Spur ski area to the cabin with around 1,900 feet of elevation gain. I was invited along with about 15 other people to do an overnight trip. We had a great time. The weather was perfect except for a bit of wind on the hike up with great views of Helens, Rainier, Adams, and of course Hood.

Tilly Jane is a great jumping off point to explore the area more with several other historic structures close by. The area is also a great ski touring or split boarding spot with the ability to ski or snowboard all the way back to your car. Our group hiked back down the next day in brilliant sunshine and warmer temps.

A few things to note: you must reserve your spot in the cabin. Reservations are first come first serve. The website says it accommodates 20 people but it can easily sleep more than that. Another thing to note is other groups might be present. If you and 4 other friends go, there might be 15 other people there that day/night. This makes for a lively atmosphere and a good way to meet other outdoor enthusiasts.

If you go in the winter bring plenty of warm clothes and a warm sleeping system. There is a wooden stove but it does next to nothing to warm the entire structure. It serves to keep you warm is you stand right next to it and to melt snow for water. One final thing. Bring a headlamp and a lamp. Supposedly fuel is provided for the lamps that are present, but this was not the case. The inside can be very dark due to the snow pack blocking the windows.

Our group had a blast and there were several other people who were present who added to the fun. This is a great spot to explore even as a resting point on a long day adventure in the area or especially as an overnight or two-night stay.

~ Remington Evert

11/18/2017

Conditions: It was all blue skies and sunshine above the clouds

Duration: A leisurely three-and-a-half-hour round trip with snack breaks and such

Difficulty: Entry-level snowshoe, uphill on the way up, downhill on the way down!

Kid Friendly: Sure!

Pet Friendly: Yup!

The Full Report: Tilly Jane was a great early season snowshoe adventure - the trail was empty with exception of a few other snowshoers and some backcountry skiers. We arrived without expectations but were super pleased with the views and the whole experience.

Once you leave the trailhead lot, you hike uphill through some east side Douglas-fir forest before making your way into a burn. The view really opens up here as there’s no dense foliage while you continue to creep up to what was a densely forested tree-line. This is where the snow got pretty deep and we were really happy to have snowshoes on. A few others were making their way to the A-Frame for an overnight at one of the oldest structures on Mount Hood: The Tilly Jane A-Frame.

Would totally recommend and hoping to do an overnight at Tilly Jane A-Frame next time!

As we continued on, we could clearly see Mt Hood in full, Rainier, St. Helens, and Adams. Super beautiful up there, and not a cloud in sight. We turned around and made our way back down to the car and into Hood River for a beer before heading back into town.

~ Ben Rushakoff