Southwest Washington Best Hikes
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Cape Horn Trail

Location: Columbia River Gorge

7 miles total, 1,200' gained         
driving directions            
trail map
forest service site
weather forecast for this area

This is a loop hike at Cape Horn that begins east of Washougal in the Columbia River Gorge.
What used to be an unmaintained boot trail is now something of a showcase with graded inclines, crafted tunnels, bridges, a signature overlook at about the one third mark along with a second overlook on the lower trail.  Numerous points along the loop afford lengthy views of the Columbia River and surrounding areas.  A waterfall adds another interesting element.  Unlike many of the other Gorge hikes, this route places you right on the Columbia River, with an up-close view of the often-photographed Cigar Rock.  The final 1 1/4 miles is along a paved, dead-end road (parking not permitted).
Upkeep of the trail by dedicated volunteers is evident, with the spirit of a challenging hike being preserved, especially along the river. 

​Can be done year-round, but the lower portion of the trail is closed Feb. 1 - July 15 every year for falcon nesting, thus not allowing for the loop.

Columbia River Gorge
Above Cape Horn
Russell Overlook
Russell Overlook; Beacon Rock in the distance
Columbia River
Lower overlook
Cigar Rock
Cigar Rock
Cape Horn trail
Waterfall
Cape Horn
From paved road, looking back up to Cape Horn

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