Iron Mountain is located near Tombstone Pass along Highway 20 east of Sweet Home, Oregon. It is a veritable wildflower cornucopia with over 300 species, along with some 17 tree species. The best time to visit is the first half of July, but the views are gorgeous on any clear day. For a longer one-way hike up Iron Mountain, you can begin at the Road 15 Trailhead off Highway 20. For a spectacular loop, see the Cone Peak-Iron Mountain Loop Hike. From the Civil Road Trailhead, you'll hike a short distance to a junction with the Iron Mountain Trail. Turn left and head up the hill to a second second junction, where the Iron Mountain and Cone Peak Trail meet. Turn right here and head up the Iron Mountain Trail. It's about a mile to the top, and the trail is all up, but it's pretty well graded. As it climbs through switchbacks, the terrain becomes more open and the views expand. Look for Washington lilies and other blooms in the spring, as well as a variety of butterflies. There are gorgeous views to the west and occasional views of Mount Jefferson and the Three Sisters. A viewing platform has been built at the summit, the site of a former fire lookout. Take in the views of Cone Peak, Echo Mountain, Browder Ridge, and the Three Sisters. Then head back down the trail to your car.
No caption provided.
No caption provided.
No caption provided.
No caption provided.
No caption provided.
400px-IronMountainMap
250px-IronMountainHillsideWildflowers2
250px-IronMountain4
250px-IronMountain3
400px-BrowderRidgeAndThreeSistersFromIronMountain