The Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge
The trails from Skamania to Lyle, Washington are a must when visiting anywhere near the Columbia River Gorge. Of course there is Beacon Rock and Dog Mountain, a couple extremely popular hikes in the area, but there are actually several more that are fantastic options for weekend (Saturday or Sunday morning will be just fine) worthy hikes!
Length: 2.1 Miles Roundtrip
Elevation: 725 ft.
Difficulty: Moderate
The Hamilton Mountain trailhead is right across the street from well-known Beacon Rock, which can make weekend parking here a bit difficult, go early or on a Tuesday! Hiking up the trail about a mile will bring you to Hardy Falls, this one is nice but the real treat is just a little further, Pool of The Winds. The view from the bridge below the falls is amazing BUT going to the top brings you to the end of a railing, peak around and waiting will be a strong burst of wind and water from the falls, hence pool of the winds. Once you’ve taken in the falls, you can continue up the trail to complete the full Hamilton Mountain hike if you want a longer hike.
Length: 0.3 Miles Roundtrip
Elevation: 121 Ft.
Difficulty: Easy
This trail is VERY short and sweet, it is perfect for a quick waterfall hike. The trailhead is somewhat hidden, once you park on the left, across the street backtracking a bit you will find it, I had to ask someone my first time. You can see 2 views of the falls, top and bottom. The top view has a turquoise river flowing downstream turning into the falls which is mesmerizing. Hiking down to the bottom view of the falls is quick, this is where you can really see the height and beauty of the falls in my opinion. After you’ve seen both views, that’s it! Less than 1 mile to experience another one of Washington’s treasures.
Length: 4.1 Miles Roundtrip
Elevation: 849 Ft.
Difficulty: Moderate
One of my favorite waterfalls of all time, Falls Creek Falls. The road getting here is a bit rough the last 2 miles before reaching the parking lot, going slow most cars would do just fine, and this is another one that gets busy fast. One of the prettiest parts of this hike is about .5 miles in, reaching the bridge. Once you’ve gotten to this point you walk side by side with the river, the turquoise color gets me every time! Getting to the falls is definitely enough climbing in a short distance to break a sweat. When approaching, you will hear the roar of the falls crashing into the pool below, then you see the magnificent view. This one is special, I highly recommend spending time here having lunch and watching the falls, especially at the very top where the sun hits creating a glowing mist.
Length: 1.9 Miles Roundtrip
Elevation: 383 Ft.
Difficulty: Easy
Driving further down the highway the scenery starts to change a bit, from a lush forest to rolling hills. Catherine Creek is a great short trail with very minimal difficulty to see some extraordinary views of the Gorge. You will encounter a small waterfall, views of hills on both sides of the Gorge and if you go during spring or early summer, lots of wildflowers! Across the street from Catherine Creek is another great hike, Coyote Wall, similar views but quite a bit longer providing even more to see.
Length: 5 Miles Roundtrip
Elevation: 1,213 Ft.
Difficulty: Moderate
Wildflowers?! This is the hike for you. Not only does this trail have an abundance of flowers in spring - early summer but the views of the Gorge on this trail are absolutely stunning. Reaching the top of the trail requires a climb, it might feel like a very long few miles but it truly is a reward to be able to hike through the blooms of the golden balsamroot and purple lupine along with hills and orchards. I would recommend Lyle Cherry Orchard over Dog Mountain any day. The only downside, ticks and poison oak! Be on the lookout, but don’t let that discourage you from making your way to this trail.
These 5 hikes are just a start. It really is amazing how many hidden gems the Gorge has to offer.
Alltrails link for more information and directions to each hike linked on hike name
