Hamilton Mountain
Location: Columbia River Gorge
6 1/2 miles total, 2,100' gained - out and back
8 miles total, 2,100' gained - short loop
14 1/2 miles, 3,800' gained - longer loop
driving directions
trail map for all three options
state park website
weather forecast for this area
Described are both the out and back and loop hikes up Hamilton Mountain, plus a longer loop taking in Hardy Ridge, Phlox Point and Hamilton Mountain. All three options start from the Beacon Rock State Park day use area in the Columbia River Gorge.
The nearly adjacent Rodney and Hardy waterfalls - one with a unique pool - are reached early on and definitely worth the short side trips to visit them. The ascent continues with many switchbacks, passing by some cliff areas, then topping out at Hamilton Mountain's summit of 2,500'. The summit is a little brushy, but views of the gorge and all directions are excellent. The trail can be vigorous in places, just adding to the mountainous feel.
For the short loop version, variety in the landscape is the main draw, along with a gentler descent and less people. Hamilton Saddle is a nice viewpoint - really even better than the summit - at about the 2,000' point on the descent. Add about 1 1/2 miles (8 miles total trip).
The longer loop goes up to Hamilton Mountain's summit like the two options above, but continues on north to Phlox Point. This loop is far less crowded than Hamilton itself, and with a way better view of the Gorge and surrounding areas at the 2,900' high point. The Hamilton/Phlox Pt. is a similar concept - but with less elevation gained - as the combo of Dog Mtn/Augspurger Mtn.
Can be done year-round, and is very popular on summer weekends. $10 parking fee or Discover Pass required. The alternate equestrian trailhead could be a good choice to avoid some of the crowds (see trail map).
8 miles total, 2,100' gained - short loop
14 1/2 miles, 3,800' gained - longer loop
driving directions
trail map for all three options
state park website
weather forecast for this area
Described are both the out and back and loop hikes up Hamilton Mountain, plus a longer loop taking in Hardy Ridge, Phlox Point and Hamilton Mountain. All three options start from the Beacon Rock State Park day use area in the Columbia River Gorge.
The nearly adjacent Rodney and Hardy waterfalls - one with a unique pool - are reached early on and definitely worth the short side trips to visit them. The ascent continues with many switchbacks, passing by some cliff areas, then topping out at Hamilton Mountain's summit of 2,500'. The summit is a little brushy, but views of the gorge and all directions are excellent. The trail can be vigorous in places, just adding to the mountainous feel.
For the short loop version, variety in the landscape is the main draw, along with a gentler descent and less people. Hamilton Saddle is a nice viewpoint - really even better than the summit - at about the 2,000' point on the descent. Add about 1 1/2 miles (8 miles total trip).
The longer loop goes up to Hamilton Mountain's summit like the two options above, but continues on north to Phlox Point. This loop is far less crowded than Hamilton itself, and with a way better view of the Gorge and surrounding areas at the 2,900' high point. The Hamilton/Phlox Pt. is a similar concept - but with less elevation gained - as the combo of Dog Mtn/Augspurger Mtn.
Can be done year-round, and is very popular on summer weekends. $10 parking fee or Discover Pass required. The alternate equestrian trailhead could be a good choice to avoid some of the crowds (see trail map).
Rodney Falls
Pool of the Winds
Ascending Hamilton Mtn.
Looking east from summit
Mt. Hood
Mt. Adams and Table Mtn. from saddle on loop trip
Hamilton Mtn. and Mt. Hood from Phlox Point