The hike begins by passing four incredible waterfalls near the Starvation Creek Trailhead: Starvation Creek Falls, Cabin Creek Falls, Hole-in-the-Wall Falls, and Lower Lancaster Falls. After passing Lower Lancaster, the trail continues traversing for a short way, and then suddenly, the climb begins in earnest.

You'll know you're into the main climb with you start grinding up a series of steep, stacked, switchbacked turns. This is the steepest part of the ascent, as you aim for the ridgeline high above. Through this series of switchbacks, you'll traverse a few burned zones—one from 2009 and one from 2017. However, the trail is still in good shape despite the fires. From these various burn scars, you'll enjoy tremendous views of the region! On a clear day, you'll be able to spot Mount Rainier, Mount Adams, Mount Saint Helens, Mount Hood, Chinidere Mountain, Indian Mountain, Tomlike Mountain, Larch Mountain, Dog Mountain, Wind Mountain, Cook Hill, and more along your hike.

After making the ridge, the climbing continues in earnest, although the grade mellows a bit. Keep grinding until you "reach the maintenance road for the Mount Defiance communication array," according to OregonHikers. Keep heading uphill, and aim for the radio towers on top of the mountain. While the radio towers may mar the natural appeal of the summit, this is still an absolute stunner of an epic hike!

"The best lunchtime spot is a perch on the slope of large boulders on the south side of the summit area. Gawk at an expansive vista towards Mount Hood for as long as you like," notes OregonHikers. Once done on the summit, head back down the mountain the same way you climbed up.

Sources: FS.USDA.gov OregonHikers.org