Cape Lookout is a narrow headland that juts westward into the Pacific for over two miles. This hike to the end of the cape is moderate due to the trail condition – full of roots to maneuver and often very muddy – but worth it for the views.
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 section of the Wilson River Trail between the Jones Creek and the Footbridge trailheads provides an easy hike through coastal forest with several riverside access points.
This section of the Wilson River Trail in Oregon’s Coast Range goes from the Elk Creek trailhead to the Kings Mountain trailhead. Along the way, the trail charms with cascading creeks and moss-covered boulders and trees.
The Cape Perpetua Scenic Area contains some of the best remaining old growth forest on the Oregon Coast. This hike includes the Cooks Ridge, Gwynn Creek and Oregon Coast Trails for a 6 mile loop.
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.
A rainy hike is sometimes the best kind of hike, like today in Oregon’s Coast Range. We started at the Keenig Creek trailhead on the Wilson River Trail and hiked to a spot on a ridge and back for a total of about 8 miles with 1,100 ft. gain.
The Salmon River Canyon trail is usually snow-free in the winter, with higher water levels in the river and streams – and the forest at this time of year is lush with many shades of green.
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.