Hiking is a quintessential Pacific Northwest pastime. And if you’re lucky enough to call Washington or Oregon home, you know that some of our best hiking trails can be found along the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge. We’re so lucky to have such a massive scenic area right in our backyard.
The beautiful Hamilton Mountain Trail is located on the Washington side of the river, within Beacon Rock State Park. There are actually two trails in one here, but they’ll both lead you to one enchanting overlook.
The main Hamilton Mountain Trail is about 6.4 miles in length, is considered moderately challenging, and typically takes about four hours to complete.
Erin Cuevas / alltrails.com If that seems like too much, you can also opt for the four-mile Little Hamilton Mountain route. The trailheads start in the same spot and are very similar, but there will be signs guiding you toward the shorter route. Just make sure to take a map with you, as some of the signs are defaced.
This trail follows a well-maintained route with good trail markings.
Melissa Sparks / alltrails.com There will be some inclines, and parts of the path might be a bit slippery, but it’s manageable.
Around the halfway mark, you’ll pass the breathtaking Rodney Falls and the Pool of the Winds Falls.
Olga Bishop / alltrails.com The majority of the waterfall hikes in the Columbia River Gorge are on the Oregon side, but Washington definitely has a few hidden gems.
For the majority of the hike, you’ll spend time in the thick, lush green forest …
Amalia Phipps / alltrails.com
… but eventually, the views will start to get better.
Amalia Phipps / alltrails.com Most of the best views are found between the halfway and the three-quarter markers during the incline to the peak.
In comparison to some of the other gorge trails, the views here are a bit limited—but they’re still absolutely stunning.
Brad Green / alltrails.com You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Columbia River Gorge, which is more than most people will see in a lifetime.
The Hamilton Mountain Trail (and Little Hamilton Mountain) will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired.
Dardee Layne / alltrails.com If you’d like the trail to yourself, it’s best to leave early and hike on a weekday. And don’t forget your Discover Pass!
Have you ever hiked this beautiful trail? It’s one of Beacon Rock State Park’s best.
Erin Cuevas / alltrails.com
If that seems like too much, you can also opt for the four-mile Little Hamilton Mountain route. The trailheads start in the same spot and are very similar, but there will be signs guiding you toward the shorter route. Just make sure to take a map with you, as some of the signs are defaced.
Melissa Sparks / alltrails.com
There will be some inclines, and parts of the path might be a bit slippery, but it’s manageable.
Olga Bishop / alltrails.com
The majority of the waterfall hikes in the Columbia River Gorge are on the Oregon side, but Washington definitely has a few hidden gems.
Amalia Phipps / alltrails.com
Most of the best views are found between the halfway and the three-quarter markers during the incline to the peak.
Brad Green / alltrails.com
You’ll get a bird’s eye view of the Columbia River Gorge, which is more than most people will see in a lifetime.
Dardee Layne / alltrails.com
If you’d like the trail to yourself, it’s best to leave early and hike on a weekday. And don’t forget your Discover Pass!
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Address: Beacon Rock State Park, 34841 WA-14, Stevenson, WA 98648, USA
