Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail
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If you'd like to take a quick and easy hike in the Columbia River Gorge, this one is a great choice! Well, actually there are two choices. The Western section of the trail, which is closest to Portland (about 40 miles away) and the Eastern section which is between Hood River and Mosier, Oregon. Mosier is about 70 miles East of Portland.
Back around the 1920's the historic Columbia River Highway was built along the Columbia River Gorge. Then came modern times (the mid 60's) and Interstate Hiway 84 was built. Parts of Old Hiway 30 were then abandoned and forgotten.
Then, in the 1980-1990's, parts of the old highway were uncovered and turned into a spectacular paved Gorge trail designed for hiking and biking. This is a perfect spot for a quick, casual hike. Since the wide trail is paved, you don't even need boots, but I would take some water, your camera, and a jacket if it is cold or rainy.
THE WESTERN SECTION OF THE TRAIL
The trail section nearest Portland starts near Bonneville Dam, which is about 40 miles East of Portland on I-84. It's just past Multnomah Falls. Take exit #40 which will be signed "Bonneville Dam."
At the end of the freeway ramp turn right at the stop sign, then immediately turn left at the fork. The road takes you up the hill and in about 2 minutes you're at Tooth Rock Trailhead and a small parking lot. Walk towards the freeway and you'll find the paved trail. Go right, walking away from Portland!
The trail takes you into forest with many ferns and moss, it's beautiful. You'll go over the freeway tunnel. Continue about 2 miles along the old hiway, go down a 60 step stairway and you'll arrive at the Eagle Creek area. You'll see some fantastic stonework from the past, check the photos! Of course the views along the trail are killer!
At that point you can continue on to Cascade Locks or turn back! We explored the Eagle Creek area and headed back. There is also another segment of the trail just east of Hood River, which I'll tell you about below. You can get maps and more information at the website which is listed above!
THE EASTERN SECTION OF THE TRAIL
The Eastern section of the trail is between Mosier and Hood River, Oregon. It is roughly about 5 miles long.
I recommend you start at the Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead East, near Mosier, Oregon. It's about 70 miles East of Portland on I-84. Take exit #69, then watch for the signs that lead you to the trailhead parking area. After parking, hike a short distance back down the road you drove in on, to the actual trail entrance, about 1 or 2 minutes away. You'll see the signs. Be sure to check the maps on the official website, listed above. Print a copy to take along on your hike!
The twin tunnels are about one mile up the trail (heading West). The wide easy to hike paved surface will take you by spectacular Gorge views and beautiful forests!
As you enter the first tunnel, watch on the right for a hand written message carved in the stone wall near the entrance, commemorating travelers stuck in the snow back in 1921!
The trail continues on to Mark O. Hatfield Trailhead West, near Hood River. We hiked about half a mile past the tunnels and turned back, which gave us a great 3-4 mile round-trip hike.
When leaving your car unattended in the Gorge, it's important to lock up. Avoid leaving valuables in your car.
Don't forget to check the photos!
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