Hike to the Vista of Angel's Rest
Details
Distance
4.6 miles
Elevation Gain
1450 ft
Route Type
Out-and-Back
Added by Ted S
Distance: 4.6 miles round trip. Elevation gain: 1,450 ft. Stunning views up and down the Columbia River Gorge and out to Portland. Perfect place for a picnic lunch or the launching pad for an all day adventure in the Gorge.
The Columbia River Gorge is absolutely full of incredible hikes - that said, this is one of the best and requires less time and energy than some of the others.
Starting at a paved parking lot right off the Historic Columbia River Gorge Highway (note: it's a very popular trail so arrive early or you'll be parking somewhere else, even off-season), the trail immediately cuts into scenic Oregon forest. The trail starts with a pretty good incline and remains that way throughout the hike.
Almost as soon as the sound of the road fades out you'll pick up the replacement sound of rushing water. After just a couple more minutes the source is revealed - a flowing stream and decent waterfall.
Passing over the stream on a classic Oregon bridge, you'll head up and away from the water. The trail continues under the cover of trees for a good mile more until you pass through the tree line at the top of a series of switchbacks revealing a large rock field to traverse. Walk with caution across the rock field and soon you'll hit a few final dirt and brush switchbacks which bring you to an outright (but very light) scramble to the very top. From there explore the area - there is a huge rock table, a historic bench (yes, a real bench), the USGS marker and even more views.
Enjoy a long break, take endless photos of the Columbia River or back track a bit to access more trails that take you further up the mountain and into the Gorge.
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Reviews
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Classic but lots of people
It’s very fun but it’s also very popular. It’s got a great view of the Gorge and isn’t too challenging but it’s also not easy. Check this one out!
3.0
Views For Days
You see so far down the Columbia towards 205 and then some. It's an incline but the view is so worth it in the end. My Fitbit said 6.8 miles and the trail says 4 altogether. Wasn't crowded on weekdays so if you happen to have it off I'd go then and not the weekend
5.0
Angel's Rest For Sunset!
Hiked up here while the sun was setting and the views of the gorge were astonishing. The trail itself was challenging enough for a good after work hike, but I didn't bring enough water. Overall a great afternoon getaway.
5.0
Great views of the gorge
Another popular hike in the area, be prepared for a crowd at the top. The views are stunning and definitely work it if you can get up there on a clear sunny day.
4.0
Crowded, but fun
Angels Rest has an amazing view of the Gorge. To me, it's a more family friendly version of Munra Point with a steady uphill on your way. At the top of the mountain there are many good views but watch your step and be careful as people have died here on the steep cliffs on either side of the summit.
4.0
A Classic Gorge Hike
This is a wonderful hike and I always consider it when I am in the Gorge. Be sure to get an early start, because it may be crowded at the top!
5.0
Popular But Great View
This trail is steep, but not too long. At the top, it is extremely windy but the view is gorgeous. I recommend going on a weekday where it won't be as crowded as on a weekend.
4.0
Come prepared
This hike is BEAUTIFUL! But please please bring proper gear for snow and ice. As you get closer to the top, the path turns completely into ice, and be care foul when you come down, it's very slippery. But the view once you get to the top is one you'll never forget.
5.0
Great for when pressed for time!
This is my go-to hike when I need a spontaneous excursion without having much time. The hike is only about five miles round trip and has a very good reward of the Gorge at the summit. The only problem is that this trail is very popular. It receives a lot of traffic when conditions are nice.
4.0
A brief hike that requires a nice climb. It was very busy when I went.
4.0
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We want to acknowledge and thank the past, present, and future generations of all Native Nations and Indigenous Peoples whose ancestral lands we travel, explore, and play on.
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