Perched on the Washington side of the Columbia River, Dog Mountain is the quintessential hike in the Columbia River Gorge. Known for its wildflowers and views of the Mount Hood in the distance, the roughly 6-mile hike up Dog Mountain is rated as difficult due to its high elevation gain (2,800 vertical feet).

Trekkers begin by switchbacking through a densely wooded forest marked by Douglas-fir trees as far as the eye can see. After roughly one mile, a proverbial fork-in-the-road appears, with a sign marking a right turn as “difficult” while the left is “more difficult.” No matter the choice, hikers will continue the trip up and soon rejoin the same path above the tree line. A final series of switchbacks concede to the peak of Dog Mountain, with sweeping views north towards the Cascades and down into the lush greenness that is the Columbia River Gorge.

Visit The Washington Trails Association to learn more about this fantastic hike in the Columbia River Gorge.

Pro Tips:

• Permits are required during the busy spring season, and parking fills up early. Arrive early to secure a parking space.
• For a loop hike rather than out-and-back, follow the Dog-Augspurger Tie Trail down from the summit of Dog Mountain.
• After a trip up dog mountain, drive the roughly 10-minutes west to Carson and visit Backwoods Brewing Company for a local beer and wood-fired pizza.