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Hiking

Hiking is a wonderful way to see and experience the many wonders of the Scenic Area. We hope you enjoy our spectacular scenery, as it is one of the unique resources that we work hard to protect! Visit our Hood River office or our maps page to obtain a trail map to help you plan your route based on your ability, available time and interest. Please help us protect natural resources by staying on the trail. Cutting shortcuts (or switchbacks) can damage plants and lead to erosion. 

Trail Updates

Some trails in Eagle Creek Area are still closed due to hazard trees and rockslides caused by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Check alerts and weather & road conditions before heading out. Please be prepared to encounter unexpected obstacles (logs, trail washouts, overgrown sections) on your hike.

To report downed trees on the trail, call (541) 308-1700 with the trail name, approximate location on the trail, and if possible the number of trees and approximate tree diameter. (Tip: can you wrap your arms around it or is it bigger?)

Backpacking

Many trails in the Gorge offer opportunities for backpacking, and some of these trails connect to the Mount Hood or Gifford Pinchot National Forests, such as the Pacific Crest Trail. Plan your route carefully and cross-check your plans against any current closures or alerts. We do not recommend camping overnight in severely burned areas, due to the risks of dead trees falling with little to no warning signs. 

Day Hikes

From short waterfront forays to steep ascents, Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers breathtaking views, many of which are perfect for short day hikes. 

Search for Hiking Opportunities

Showing: 11 - 20 of 87 results

Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail (#4400)

Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
The accessible, paved, Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail is located in the east end of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Catherine Creek is an area of unique natural beauty and is of…

Catherine Creek Loop

Site Open
Hiking
This 1.9 mile loop, northeast of the Catherine Creek Trailhead, offers spectacular wildflower viewing during the spring and passes within sight of a natural arch. The vicinity surrounding the arch is…

Catherine Creek Trailhead

Site Open
Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
Parking for access to the eastern Columbia River Gorge at Catherine Creek Recreation Area which is popular each spring for wildflower viewing. The trailhead and parking north of Old Highway 8 are…

Coyote Wall Trail (#4428)

Biking Horse Riding and Camping Hiking
The trail was realigned away from the cliffs in accordance with the 2011 Catherine Creek, Coyote Wall, and Burdoin Mountain Recreation Plan. The new trail is designed for mountain bike use but open…

Coyote Wall Trailhead

Site Open
Biking Hiking Horse Riding and Camping
From Coyote Wall Trailhead, bikers, hikers, and riders can access a 30+ mile network trails with an open feel and breath-taking views. 

Deadwood Trail (#422)

Hiking
This remote, primitive wilderness trail links Gorton Creek Trail #408 to Nick Eaton Trail #447. The trail is brushy and can be hard to follow due to the Eagle Creek Fire of 2017. Deadwood Camp is…

Devils Rest Trail (#420C)

Hiking Outdoor Science and Learning
Devils Rest Trail begins at its junction with Wahkeena Trail #420 at 1.5 miles from Wahkeena Trailhead. From the #420 junction to the end of Devils Rest Trail #420C it’s about another 1.2 miles to…

Dog Mountain Trail (#147)

Outdoor Science and Learning Hiking
Springtime wildflower blooms and stunning views make Dog Mountain one of the most popular hiking areas in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Visitors will enjoy panoramic views of the…

Dog Mountain Trailhead

Site Open
Hiking Picnicking Outdoor Science and Learning
Dog Mountain Day Use Area and Trailhead is the access point for two of the most scenic trails in the Gorge, Dog Mountain Trail #147 and Augspurger Trail #4407. These two trails form a popular loop…

Dog-Augspurger Tie Trail

Hiking
This is a tie trail between the Dog Mountain Trail and the Augsperger Mountain trail, passing through forest with a gentle grade. The trail begins at Dog Mountain Trail #147 in the meadow and ends at…

Last updated April 1, 2025