Treks and Adventures
A conditioning hike to overlooking Indian Point in the Columbia River Gorge. The trail sequence was Herman Creek, Nick Eaton Way, Ridge Cutoff Trail and Gordon Creek Trail. This takes one through burn forest, old growth, scenic viewpoints and on Nick Eaton Way some very steep trails. The early season wildflowers were in bloom. By the numbers: 8,4 miles, 2790 ft elevation gain in 5 1/2 hours on trail.
A beautiful, sunny day with wildflowers in bloom makes for a great hike of the Mosier Plateau Trail in the Columbia River Gorge. 3.5 miles, 750 ft. gain, about 3 hrs.
Afterward we went to Full Sail Brewery in Hood River for lunch.
A solo hike to the summit of Hamilton Mt. in Beacon Rock State Park. Also added some other back of park exploring on. Did about 11.5 mile, 3000 ft. total elevation gain with about 6 1/4 hours on the trail.
I had plan on doing a traditional hike of Hamilton Mt. but he parking lot was full with BCEP student so this was my plan B. There were several trails in Beacon Rock State Park I had not done so I took this opportunity to check them out. I started in the Equestrian Parking lot and started on the Equestrian Trail. My first new trail was to take off on the Lower Loop Trail. This trail had more old growths stumps then I have seen else where and gave an idea what was here before logging. Next I switch off onto the Hardy Ridge East that I had just hike as part of doing Hardy Ridge. From this trail I could take the Bridge Trail that was new to me. After crossing over Hardy Creek I arrived at Upper Hardy Trail that takes you to that the back side of Beacon Rock State Park. This trail quickly climbs and finally lead to The Saddle behind Hamilton Mt. summit and some good views of the area. From there I took the Don’s Cutoff trail to put me back on Upper Hardy Trail this in turn put me back on the Equestrian Trail and back to my car. Exploring the new trails was fun but doing a lot of road walking gets old fast so I was happy to be heading home.
By the numbers: Almost 10 miles, 1950 elevation gain, about 5 1/2 Hours on that trail.
I did a hike of Hardy Ridge Lollipop Loop. Forecast was for much better weather then I found but I had the gear along to accommodate the conditions. This hike normally ends at Phlox Point but with no view and questionable trail condition I skipped the climb up the rocky path. By the numbers: 8.8 miles, 2025 ft. elevation gain, 4.5 hours on trail.
Hike Notes: The access gate is locked open and there are no hours posted.