Catherine Creek Recreation Area
One of the premier areas for early spring wildflower viewing in the eastern Columbia River Gorge, Catherine Creek Recreation Area is popular each spring before it dries up by mid summer. The trailhead and parking north of Old Highway 8 are the access point to a network of multi-use biker/hiker/equestrian trails. The site was once a ranch before being acquired by the Forest Service to protect native plants, the unique arch formation, and other sensitive resources after the creation of the National Scenic Area.
Bear right to start the Catherine Creek Loop Trail, which is gradually being improved by the Forest Service and the Washington Trails Association. Take a slight left to follow Old Atwood Road, a route popular with mountain bikers.
The harder-to-follow Bitterroot Trail #4422 also leads west, eventually connecting to the Coyote Wall Area. This route began as a user-created trail, and has never been officially "built" by the Forest Service, so it is easy to get lost.
The agency agreed to maintain some of the trails created by users after a 2012 planning effort. Each year more trail improvements are implemented, and in 2019 a new bridge was constructed over Catherine Creek and a new kiosk was built in 2020. Other area trails are being decommissioned to protect native plants, so do your best to stay on marked trails and avoid areas and respect signs that mark areas under restoration.
Catherine Creek Recreation Area
Recreation Sites
Catherine Creek Loop
Catherine Creek Recreation Area
