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 Reporter |
Summary: Parking at Beacon Rock State Park requires a Northwest Forest Pass or a $5.00 day use fee payable via the lockbox at the end of the lot. Once you have that out of the way the hike begins climbing moderately into the wooded foothills of Hamilton Mountain and passes through a variety of terrain on the way to Hardy and Rodney Falls. Pause here for a few pictures or sit on the bridge and listen to the water, wildlife, and the winds that seem to blow on most days. As the trail climbs it becomes quite steep on your way to sheer cliffs and spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge. Stay to the right on the “most difficult” marked section of trail that will lead to a plateau overlooking the Columbia River and the Bonneville Dam. There is a variety of plant life on this trail as well, including Sword Ferns, wild rose and snowberry plants as well as mock orange, ocean spray and low bush Oregon grape. This has become one of the more popular hikes in the area, so be on the lookout Trailhead: From Portland OR, I-5 North to WA State Route 14. Travel East to Beacon Rock State Park. Trail Head is located near campground day use area. (Lat:45.63242 Lon:-122.02005) Trail Guides for Hamilton Mountain, Portland Oregon: Hiking the Columbia River Gorge by Russ Schneider (Falcon Guide) Best Seasons: Year-Round User Groups: Hikers, Dogs, Ranger Contact: Gifford Pinchot National Forest Headquarters 360-891-5000 Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Drew Furnia, who has posted 23 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here. Trail Reviews Page 1 of 5 Submit your own review 
Reviewed by JAS on 8/26/2009 Hiked alone today on the Loop trail that goes up the Most Difficult trail to the top of Hamilton Mtn and then loops back on a more gradually graded trail to return. Best views on the first half, but nice to have the variety and extra distance. The second falls had an amazing pool at the bottom surrounded by sheer cliff staight up with a small opening to peer in and up - looks like a great (cold) swimming spot but I wondered if there is any risk of going over the falls. Has anyone tried out this "pool"? One new development was that the fee to park is now an optional donation for all (whether from WA or not). Saw a frog that looked like a green leaf in the sink at the picnic area - scared the heck out of me when the "leaf" jumped!
Reviewed by Adirondack Mary on 6/22/2009 This is a good trail for 8-12 year old kids just starting out who need a challenge and a view. The trail was in excellent condition when we climbed it on 6/22. Good use of switchbacks keeps the trail condition good and avoids steep scrambles that would be too much for small bodies or old knees. Above falls, take the right fork when the trail splits, because the "More Difficult" trail is much shorter and offers much better views. The other spends most of its time on a gravel road with no rain or sun protection and no views until you have topped the summit ridge. Due to a new Washington law, the hike is now free to Washington residents and $5 if you have out-of-state plates.
Reviewed by pkg on 6/18/2009 Did this hike with my 22 year old daughter today. We did the MOST DIFFICULT trail up and back. We got there early, so no one was at the top with us. Very nice day. My feet are sore from the rocky spots. If you go wear good hiking shoes with good soles. I am going to buy me a new pair!
Reviewed by Noomz on 6/4/2009 My school did this hike yesterday and a bunch of us want to do it again. we are going to swim the falls. :) i can't wait. NRA rules! GO unicorn!
Reviewed by mk on 7/14/2008 Loved this hike! Lived in OR all my life and never have been before.. Would def come again...
Reviewed by JamesK on 6/5/2008 My friend Scott and I did this hike on May 31, 2008. Had a great time! The trail is in good shape with a few muddy spots that you need to take care while traversing. Stay to the right at the fork in the trail as others have said, as this will give you the best views. Coming down the back-side of the mountain using the other trail is recommended. It's easier on the knees and allows for a great view about 5 minutes from the top, where you can get a great view of Mt. Adams on a clear day (not to mention a better view of the Gorge.) Great hike!
Reviewed by Joseph on 4/7/2008 This was my first time on Mt Hamilton. We had a bit of a rainy day yesterday, but this was still a very enjoyable hike. The hike was not near as difficult as I expected, and I do agree with everyone else to "stay to the right." The sign says its "more difficult", but it really was not bad and the views (at least of the falls) were spectacular. It was cloudy, foggy, raining, and we even got a bit of wind driven hail near the top, but I look forward to doing this one again on a clear day. There are some magnificant views to had.
Reviewed by Tyler on 3/10/2008 I have done this hike several times, with my most recent on March 5th. The trail was in good condition, if a bit muddy in places. There were no major downed trees though. There was several feet of snow (in drifts) above the 2000' level. The snow was present on the road (trail) back down to about 1,500'. As always, great views and few people. Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site. Keys: Washington Hiking, Washington Trails, Washington Hikes, Skamania County Hiking, Skamania County Trails, Skamania County Hikes | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||