As the hiking community flocks to the Olympic Mountains, Mount Rainier or sticks close by, visiting the trails on the Oregon side of the Columbia Gorge, the trails of Southwest Washington offer a beautiful respite. Full of incredible trails and endless nature experiences, Southwest Washington is an overlooked gem for hikers and modern day adventurers hoping for incredible outdoor fun. Offering miles of trails for families to explore, including hikes to breathtaking vistas and stunning waterfalls, the pathways through the great outdoors found in our backyard might just inspire a lifetime of nature recreation. As always, before heading into nature, review the Leave No Trace principles and always be prepared.
Dog Mountain
Fifty miles east of Vancouver on the Washington side of the Columbia, Dog Mountain is one of the quintessential hikes along the Gorge. At roughly six miles round trip, this short and steep hike is sure to change your perspective on the beauty of the Columbia River. In the spring, this trail is a wildflower lover’s paradise, erupting in a bloom unlike anywhere else on Washington’s Columbia River Gorge. Full of panoramic views, the steep trail is worth every drop of sweat and makes for an incredible picnic area all summer and fall.
Lewis River Falls
Perfect in nearly every season, the Lewis River Falls is yet another iconic and incredible trail right in our own backyard. Offering a 6.6 mile out and back path, showcasing a handful of spectacular waterfalls, it is little wonder why this is one of the most popular hikes in our community. Sure, drive might take a few hours, but even a short jaunt down to the first waterfall will leave you wanting to return here year after year. This trail can be lengthened or shortened for all ages and hiking abilities.
Panther Creek and Falls Creek Falls
Located just north of Carson, the two waterfalls of Panther Creek and Falls Creek are a double dose of tumbling beauty. Panther Creek Falls is an underrated gem, as the cascading waters provide endless inspiration. However, at just a half mile long, the trail is too short to be the only destination. After enjoying Panther Creek, hit up Falls Creek Falls and be once again blown away by the breathtaking display of falling water. Falls Creek Falls is highlighted by both the falls and a great cable suspension bridge, making this a wonderland of adventure for all ages.
Hamilton Mountain and Beacon Rock
Along the mighty Columbia, both Hamilton Mountain and Beacon Rock stand tall, offering breathtaking views and memorable experiences for hikers who dare take in the vistas from their dizzying heights. For many, Beacon Rock is a daunting enough hike. For about one mile, the trail climbs up this geological beauty on a rock path, paved sections and wooden bridges, many of which seem to precariously cling to the rock. From the top, the views are breathtaking and worth the slight vertigo some might experience. If that hike is too easy, consider taking the 7.5 mile round trip trek up to Hamilton Mountain, where even greater panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge can be found.
Lava Canyon
In the southern shadow of Mount Saint Helens, a five mile round trip trail will inspire and possible terrify you in the best way. The amazing path known as the Lava Canyon Trail leads to magnificent experiences and inspiring views. Best hiked as a full loop, the path starts out with a gorgeous waterfall view before crossing a stunning and memorable 125-foot, swinging, suspension bridge. Once across the bridge, the views of the canyon are awesome, leading you further down the trail to a water crossing. After more great views of the greater Saint Helens region, the loop heads back, ending at the same place you started. The best part of this trail is that the first section is completely ADA accessible and full of interpretive signage, letting all ages and abilities enjoy this experience.
Cape Horn
Offering some of the most unique and inspiring views of the Columbia River Gorge, the Cape Horn trail is sure to become a favorite for active hikers looking for panoramic bliss. At 7.1 miles in length, the loop trail gains just 1,350 feet, giving off views of Hamilton Mountain, Beacon Rock, Angel’s Rest and even Multnomah Falls. The trail is pretty new, as far as Pacific Northwest Trails go, so don’t expect the same wear and tear and signage you might find elsewhere. However, if you love views of the mighty river and are looking for a great workout trail, this is the hike for you.
Ape Caves
No Southwest Washington hiking adventure can be complete until you have experienced the majestic and mystifying bliss found below ground. Known as the Ape Caves, the old lava tubes near Mount Saint Helens are a family-friendly destination and a place for more serious hikers to go for a unique adventure. Offering two trails, one easy at 3/4 of a mile in length and one much harder, requiring scrambling and squeezing, at a mile and a half in length, the caves are perfect for sunny or rainy days. Constantly at a temperature of 42 degrees fahrenheit, with water dripping from the cave ceiling, a raincoat, hat, good shoes, flashlights and extra batteries are required to complete this trek.
