Hiking in the Gorge:

The dramatic drop from the Mt. Hood forest plateau to the Columbia River accounts for one of the highest concentration of waterfalls found anywhere, which makes for beautiful hikes through temperate lush forests to spectacular cascading rivers. The Gorge’s gorgeous trails range from the misty and mossy to the exposed and rocky. If you want to experience it all, the Columbia Gorge Trail stretches for more than 35 miles through the length of the Gorge. Whether you are looking for day hikes, long backpacking trips, or just a stroll through the beautiful landscape, the Columbia River Gorge region has a variety of hikes for all skill levels.

You can hike the Washington side of the Gorge on Sleeping Beauty Trail, 12 miles north of Trout Lake in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest; Dog Mountain Trail, off of State Route 14 or visit Falls Creek Falls, off of Wind River Highway and Forest Road 306. This waterfall drops over 400 feet and you’ll see tier, fan and plunge falls all in one. If you are looking for waterfalls, Eagle Creek Trail offers more of them than any other trail in the Gorge. There really is a plethora of hiking trails, both well known and locally known, that characterize the Columbia River Gorge.

If you are interested in hiking around the Gorge you should check out Columbia River Gorge’s most beloved hiking and exploring guidebook (Curious Gorge). It’s a fun book that reads as if the author’s in the car with you explaining and directing you to all the amazing things to see and do. Curious Gorge is not your standard lifeless hiking guide. This book is lively and fun to read as it blends seasonal insights, humor, history, and just plain enthusiasm for all the Columbia River Gorge’s wonders.

Other helpful links:

Interactive Hiking Guides

Great Hikes for Kids

Gorge Hiking Trails