Sunday, sunny. 8 miles, 1600'. 9 of us hiked to Bald Butte, among other motorcyclists and mountain bikers. Great view of Mount Hood across the Hood River Valley (orchards and vineyards). View starts early on this trail, as you walk in and out of woods, cross some gravel roads (4 times?), and giant power line stations. The Bald Butte is aptly named. Balsamroot is on its last leg. Need to be here at least 2 weeks ago, or maybe in fall: plenty vine maples. 
The cornflower here has two colors: regular blue or purple, and the white one with blue center. You can see Hood, St Helens, Rainier, and Adams on the bald butte (Adams is more clear before you get to the butte). Lots of space on the top to spread around.2.3 mile up the Oak Ridge Trail, passing 3 gravel roads, turn left at the sign, then 1.8 miles on the Surveyor's Ridge Trail to Bald Butte. Oak Ridge Trailhead (Latitude: 45.51997, Longitude: -121.5620): I-84 Exit 64 for Highway 35. 15 miles later turn left on Smullin Road (one mile past the Hood River Ranger Station) for 0.3 miles and make a left onto a gravel road.
