7 Mountains Near Oregon City Worth A Road Trip

Oregon, a land of enchanting wilderness and captivating landscapes, is home to a variety of mountains that stand as icons for the state, inviting explorers to embrace their awe-inspiring beauty. If you're craving a scenic road trip adventure that will leave you mesmerized, look no further than the breathtaking mountains that surround Oregon City - we will take you on a stroll through seven must-visit mountains in the area, so keep on reading!

List of mountains covered:

Hood Mountain
Mount Jefferson
Mount Bachelor
Mount Thielsen
Mount Washington
Three Fingered Jack
Mount McLoughlin

Hood Mountain

Crowned with glistening snow and framed by sprawling forests, Mount Hood stands as a symbol of Oregon's natural grandeur. Its picturesque trails and panoramic viewpoints offer an escape into a pristine wilderness that captivates the hearts of all who venture near. The allure of this iconic peak is undeniable, drawing travelers into a world where nature's splendor reigns supreme.

Along the drive, stop at Timberline Lodge - A historic and picturesque lodge located on the southern flank of Mount Hood, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountainous landscape. Stop here to take in the breathtaking scenery, explore the lodge's architecture, and enjoy a meal in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.

Mount Jefferson

Rising boldly into the sky, Mount Jefferson commands attention with its rugged charm and breathtaking vistas. Embarking on a journey to this majestic mountain promises an encounter with the untamed spirit of Oregon's wilderness. Hikers and nature enthusiasts are lured by its magnetic allure, eager to discover the secrets hidden within its verdant valleys and alpine wonders.

Mount Bachelor

A paradise for adventure seekers, Mount Bachelor's slopes and trails invite visitors to indulge in a world of outdoor excitement. From exhilarating winter sports to invigorating summer escapades, this mountain offers a diverse playground for those craving an adrenaline-fueled escape. The panoramic views from its peaks serve as a reminder of nature's boundless beauty and the thrill of exploration.

Make sure to visit the ski area in the winter season - it is a renowned winter sports destination with panoramic views of the Cascade Range, providing a perfect spot for a quick break to admire the snow-capped peaks and the vast expanse of the surrounding wilderness. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and take in the beauty of the snow-covered landscape.

Mount Thielsen

With its unique, horn-like peak, Mount Thielsen stands as a testament to Oregon's geological wonders. Its rugged trails and panoramic viewpoints provide a gateway to a world where the raw power of nature is on full display. Hikers and photographers alike are drawn to its captivating allure, eager to capture its essence and immerse themselves in its breathtaking vistas.

Mount Washington

For those who love nature and the outdoors, Mount Washington is the ultimate destination. Its rugged trails and alpine landscapes provide an unparalleled opportunity to escape into a world of natural wonders. With vibrant wildflowers and commanding summit views, this mountain demands that explorers embrace the untamed spirit of the Pacific Northwest and make unforgettable memories amidst its pristine wilderness.

Three Fingered Jack

A striking and captivating presence, Three Fingered Jack invites adventurers to unravel its mysteries and embrace the rugged charm of Oregon's backcountry. Its unique rock formations and challenging trails provide an exhilarating experience for hikers and climbers seeking to conquer its formidable terrain and immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of the region.

Mount McLoughlin

Dominating the skyline with its commanding presence, Mount McLoughlin stands as a testament to Oregon's volcanic past. Its rugged trails and panoramic viewpoints offer an escape into a world of natural wonders and breathtaking vistas, captivating the hearts and minds of all who seek to explore its majestic slopes and immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

When in need of professional help on the road or in preparation for a trip, Mountain Tech Inc. is always a phone call away from helping!

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Why Does My Car Have a Burning Smell on The Long Downhills?

September 26, 2025

Driving downhill for an extended period puts unique demands on your vehicle, especially when it comes to braking and engine performance. If you’ve ever noticed a burning smell while descending a steep grade, it can be concerning. Sometimes the odor is harmless, but in other cases, it signals that your brakes, transmission, or other components are overheating. Knowing what causes these smells and how to address them can help you prevent damage and drive more safely. Brakes Overheating on Long Descents The most common source of a burning smell during downhill driving is overheated brakes. When you ride the brakes continuously, friction builds up between the brake pads and rotors, producing intense heat. This heat can cause the pads to emit a sharp, acrid odor as the material begins to break down. In extreme cases, overheated brakes can lead to brake fade — a condition where your braking power is reduced because the pads and rotors are too hot to function properly. If you notice a burning smell accompanied by reduced stopping ability, pull over safely and allow the brakes to cool before continuing. To prevent this, use engine braking whenever possible. Downshift to a lower gear to let your engine help control speed rather than relying entirely on the brake pedal. This reduces stress on your braking system and keeps temperatures in check. Transmission Fluid Overheating If your car has an automatic transmission, long downhill drives can sometimes overwork the transmission and cause its fluid to overheat. Transmission fluid helps cool and lubricate internal parts, but when it gets too hot, it can produce a distinctive burnt odor. This is more likely if you’re carrying a heavy load or towing while descending a steep grade. An overheating transmission can lead to significant wear if ignored, so if you notice a persistent burning smell combined with gear slipping or delayed shifting, have the system inspected as soon as possible. Burning Smells From the Clutch For vehicles with manual transmissions, a burning smell on downhills may come from an overheated clutch. This happens if you ride the clutch pedal or keep partial pressure on it while trying to control your speed. The friction between the clutch disc and flywheel generates heat, which produces a noticeable odor. To avoid clutch overheating, fully engage or fully release the pedal rather than “feathering” it. Downshifting properly and letting the engine handle more of the braking can also help reduce stress on the clutch. Engine Oil or Coolant Leaks Sometimes the burning smell isn’t related to the brakes or transmission at all. Engine oil or coolant can leak onto hot engine components, such as the exhaust manifold, where it burns and produces strong odors. An oil leak typically creates a thick, bitter smell, while burning coolant produces a sweet, syrupy scent. If the smell continues even after normal driving, or if you see smoke under the hood, it’s important to have your vehicle inspected. Ignoring leaks can lead to overheating, reduced engine performance, and costly repairs. Worn or Contaminated Brake Pads Even when you’re braking properly, worn or low-quality brake pads can overheat more easily on steep descents. Some pads use materials that produce stronger odors when hot, especially if they’ve absorbed contaminants like oil or grease. Replacing them with high-quality pads designed for your driving needs can minimize these smells and improve braking performance. How to Prevent Burning Smells on Downhills A few simple driving habits can make a big difference when it comes to avoiding overheating and burning odors: Use lower gears to take advantage of engine braking and reduce reliance on your brakes. Avoid riding the brakes for long stretches; apply firm, short braking instead. Check your brake system regularly to ensure pads, rotors, and fluid are in good condition. Inspect for leaks if burning smells persist after normal driving conditions. These steps reduce strain on critical systems and help maintain control during extended downhill driving. Expert Brake and Transmission Care at Mountain Tech Inc. If you’ve noticed a burning smell while driving downhill, let the team at Mountain Tech Inc. in Oregon City, OR, inspect your vehicle. Our technicians can determine whether the odor comes from overheated brakes, transmission fluid, the clutch, or leaking engine fluids, and we’ll address the issue before it leads to bigger problems. Schedule an appointment with Mountain Tech Inc. today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is ready for every climb and descent.