Outbound Collective logo

Hike to the Summit of Hamilton Mountain

Stevenson, Washington

Description

Added by Lorene Voskinarian

Panoramic views of the Columbia Gorge, Mt Hood, & Mt AdamsEasy access from the Portland Metro AreaThree waterfallsScenic forest trailDistance: 7.5 miles roundtripElevation Gain: 2200'

The hike up to the summit of Hamilton Mountain starts at the Hamilton Mountain trailhead, located within Beacon Rock State Park. This can be a busy trail on weekends but it's worthwhile for the amazing views and stunning waterfalls.

The trail starts at 200' elevation and continues at a steady incline along a wooded trail. After nearly a mile you will reach the waterfalls along Hardy Creek. The first waterfall is Hardy Falls, which you can view by taking a signed spur to the right.

Returning to the main trail you will come to a junction with a sign for Hamilton Mountain and Pool of the Winds. Continue up the trail to Pool of the Winds. Descend back to the junction and head down to Rodney Falls. After you cross Hardy Creek you will start the 1.75 mile ascent to the top.

Shortly you will reach the junction with the Hardy Creek trail, which provides a longer route up the mountain but stay on the main trail. Get ready to start the real climb - a long series of switchbacks working your way up nearly 2000' of elevation gain! Pause at a large outcropping known as Little Hamilton Mountain to take in views of the Columbia River, Bonneville Dam, and Beacon Rock.

Return to the trail for another series of switchbacks before a short uphill hike takes you to the summit. If you're not sure you are at the top look for the 2438' sign. On a clear day you will be able to view Mt. Hood to the South and Mt Adams to the North East. After enjoying the view you can return back to the parking lot along the same trail.

At the trailhead you will find bathrooms, a playground, and a CCC picnic shelter. There is a large parking lot, but it fills up quickly on a nice day. Cars are required to display a daily or annual Washington Parks Discovery Pass which be purchased at the trail head with cash or with a credit card at the kiosk by Beacon Rock.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Family Friendly
Forest
Scenic
Waterfall

Hike to the Summit of Hamilton Mountain Reviews

Have you done this adventure? Be the first to leave a review!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hamilton Mountain

Hardy and Rodney Falls

Beacon Rock

Elowah Falls

Upper McCord Creek Falls

Table Mountain via Aldrich Butte Trailhead