On Mount Hood: A Biography of Oregon's Perilous Peak

This book by Jon Bell gives us the perspective of a journalist and one who appreciates the outdoors. Like so many people who have settled in the area around Portland (Oregon), Bell has an affinity for this mountain that dominates the landscape and the dreams of the people in the region. It has that attraction for those who want to climb it and an awe for those who know they can't. Bell brings that sense of attraction and awe, as well as a solid (if brief) history of the mountain and its role in the region -- both past and present.Whether in anticipation of your own climb of this magnificent mountain, seeking the opportunity to learn more about the mountain and its influence on the region, or remaining an armchair traveller, this book is highly recommended. It is a pleasant and comfortable -- and, at times, very personal -- reflection of a mountain.

A friend that lives in Portland recommended this book to me. I had never read a book like this before and was a little unsure what to expect; I was completely engaged with On Mt. Hood! This well written book is just the right amount of Hood's history, information on people and places on and around the mountain, and the author's personal accounts of his experiences hiking, camping, and climbing on Mt. Hood. There were nights I honestly lost sleep because I wasn't able to put the book down! On Mt. Hood is a must read whether you live in the shadow of the mountain or far away from it. Enjoy!

As someone headed to this part of the world, this was a fantastic read about Mt. Hood. I've been doing my own research and stumbled across this book and everything that I had read has been in this book. Thorough, intriguing and intimate I was happy to be along for the ride. Anyone interested in the mountain should give this a go.

I felt like I was back on the mountain. Wonderfully written descriptions. The historical accounts are especially enjoyable. I recommend this to anyone who has tasted the intoxicating beauty that is Mount Hood.

We have just moved to the Mount Hood area, and I purchased this book to learn something about the mountain. This book successfully tackles the mountain's story from the geologic, weather, political and personal levels. I will be rereading it as we come to know the mountain in person.

Great read for an amazing Mt.!Lots of accurate history.

Wonderful for those who live in or know Portland, Oregon. Gives new insight into the mountain and what it has to offer.

Mt. Hood is one of my all time favorite things. This book was simply awesome. It combined history, facts, & a fun narrative by the author. I couldn't put it down!