Hike to the Vista of Angel's Rest
Oregon › Angel's Rest Trailhead
-
Activities:
Hiking
-
Skill Level:
Beginner
-
Season:
Year Round
-
Trail Type:
Out-and-Back
-
RT Distance:
4.6 Miles
-
Elevation Gain:
1450 Feet
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.
Pack List
- Sturdy shoes, ideally waterproof for the mud & streams
- Plenty of water and a few snacks to enjoy along the hike
- Extra clothing for the top, it can get rather windy
- The rest of the 10 essentials, be safe, please!
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
about 1 month ago
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.
3 months ago
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.
11 months ago
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.
12 months ago
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!
about 1 year ago
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.
over 1 year ago
Was recently in Portland for work and this was the perfect option for what I was looking for: close to the city, not too long but not too short, and with some elevation gain and some views. For fellow Seattleites, this popular trail seemed to be the equivalent of Rattlesnake Ledge for Portlanders, which makes sense given its proximity to the city and its great views of the gorge. Bring an extra layer for the crazy wind gusts up top!
over 1 year ago
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.
over 1 year ago
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.
almost 2 years ago
A brief hike that requires a nice climb. It was very busy when I went.
about 2 years ago
