When spring wildflowers are blooming, the Catherine Creek and Coyote Wall areas are popular with hikers. To avoid crowds, consider this loop hike located between these two areas.
The Lyle Cherry Orchard loop hike offers amazing views of the Columbia River Gorge, and while we were there too early for wildflowers, we didn’t see the ticks, rattlesnakes, or poison oak that are abundant later in the season.
This hike in Southwest Washington begins at Moulton Falls Park and goes up to the summit of Bells Mountain through mossy forests and open formerly logged sections with views towards the Silver Star Mountain area.
The Klickitat River Trail can be a good option for dry conditions during the rainy season. Located near Lyle, Washington, this area receives less rain than the western side of the Gorge.
It’s been over 5 years since I hiked to the summit of Hamilton Mountain. While the hike felt just as strenuous as it ever had, this was the first time I’ve hiked there in the fall.
Indian Heaven Wilderness is my favorite place for fall color, and this year was exceptional with spectacular color and warm weather.
On this two night backpacking trip, we camped near Killen Creek’s upper waterfall and hiked to High Camp, then left a day early when high wind and wildfire smoke threatened to impact the area.
On this three night backpacking trip, we camped near the Pacific Crest Trail and did day hikes on the PCT from Old Snowy to Cispus Pass.
The Wind Mountain Trail is steep, but also quite short so it’s over before you know it, and the views of the Columbia River Gorge from the top are amazing. It’s also the site of tribal spirit quest spaces at the top.