The trailhead is located off SR-14
in Washington, 12.5 miles West of the Bridge of the Gods (Cascade Locks). A NW Forest Pass is required for parking. There is a bathroom a short distance up the trail. This trail presents the challenge of 2828 vertical feet in 3.8 miles, lots of Poison Oak, and the possibility of strong winds at the top of the mountain. (The Forest Service should be paying you to go to the top - maybe we could work this into the national health care)
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| After about a mile of switchbacks you get to this split in the trail |
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| We went to the right because it is "less difficult" |
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| Soon you reach a forest carpeted with Oregon Grape - Mr. Thornsby approves |
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| The trail opens out onto this viewpoint |
Looking downstream
The wind was picking up speed here - notice the ears and tail!
Come back in May or June to see the Balsamroot in bloom. From here, the trail goes back into forest, then out onto the grassy mountain top for the last 3/4 mile. Clouds and high winds dominated this last part of the trail today - not a pleasant hike.
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| The "view" from the top, looking down at the river |
We only stayed at the top long enough to take a couple of pictures, then retreated down slope into the forest, away from the wind for a quick lunch, then headed home.
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