Overview
The Tilly Jane A-Frame is an ideal getaway for individuals, groups and families who enjoy the great outdoors in the beautiful Pacific Northwest. The facility is one of the oldest structures on Mt. Hood and is a popular cabin used by winter recreationists. Peak season for use of the cabin is usually November through June.. It provides access to scenic terrain, specifically hiking, snowshoeing and backcountry skiing activities.
During the summer months (usually July-September) the A-Frame is easily accessed by taking a short quarter mile walk through the Tilly Jane Campground. During the winter months ( October-June), it serves as a winter retreat for persons hardy enough to make the effort to get to the cabin from the Tilly Jane Sno-Park. Winter conditions often exist for nine months of the year. Visitors can ski to the cabin following a 9 mile gently sloping road or climb the historic Tilly Jane ski trail which is roughly 2.7 miles, with an elevation gain of 1,900 feet. Skis or snowshoes are highly recommended!
Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety. Backcountry travel experience is highly recommended.
Recreation
Visitors must hike, snowshoe or ski to the facility during the winter months. During the summer season, it is possible to drive up and walk to the structure. Multiple trails can be accessed from the A-Frame, some of which are well marked and others covered by snow for most of the year.
Nearby trails offer a variety of day trips, including to the Cooper Spur Stone shelter which offers great views of the majestic Mt. Hood, St Helens, Mt. Adams and Mt. Rainer.
Facilities
The 24-by-48, two story structure has a sleeping loft, accessed by a ladder that can accommodate up to 20 people. More than one group may reserve the facility at the same time. It is equipped with two picnic tables, benches, a few chairs and a wood stove for heating and boiling/melting snow.
In warmer months, water can be found with a short walk to Tilly Creek. We advise that all water be treated or boiled. In winter, water can be obtained by digging an access hole to Tilly Creek or by melting snow using the pots provided at the cabin. A primitive outhouse with a pit toilet is provided within the alcove of the structure. You will need to bring your own toilet paper.
Guests will also need to provide sleeping bags and pads, warm clothing, headlamps, cooking pots/pans, stove and fuel, matches or a lighter. It is best to treat your stay as a backpacking trip, bringing everything you’d need minus a tent. Several lanterns and replacement mantels are available. You will need to provide the one pound green propane canisters if you wish to use the lanterns. Firewood and splitting tools are provided.
Natural Features
The A-Frame is located high on the north side of Mt. Hood at an elevation of 5,700 feet. It is one of five structures within the Cloud Cap/Tilly Jane Historic District. It was built in the late 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) and was used extensively by the American Legion in its early days. The facility is surrounded by old growth trees and is roughly 1,000 feet below tree line. It is operated and maintained by the all-volunteer, Oregon Nordic Club, under permit from the Forest Service. A cook shed is adjacent to the A-Frame, but has been condemned by the Forest Service.
