From the Equestrian Trailhead: The Equestrian trailhead is the only multiuse (equestrian, bicycle, hiker) access point for the park and the trailhead for Hardy Ridge. It is also a great place to start your hike for Hamilton Mountain on a busy weekend day, as there is usually parking available. Head up the moderate, multi-use double track meandering through mature second growth. After a varied climb reach the first trail junction at 1.22 miles.


Go left on West Hardy Trail to head up towards Hardy Ridge. A mile and a quarter up enjoy westerly views, at a little over a mile and half the trail intersects with Hardy Ridge Trail (hikers only). Hikers continue up Hardy Ridge Trail ascending the recently rerouted switchbacks to the spine of the ridge at 2580’ in two thirds of a mile. Enjoy panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge. The ridge is abound with wildflowers in spring and early summer. Descend eastward reaching East Hardy Trail (double track) in a little over a half mile. Continue on East Hardy Trail passing an intersection with Bridge Trail at .82 miles, in another .78 miles reach another four way junction with the Equestrian Trail. Go right on Equestrian Trail to return to trailhead in 1.8 mil

Activity Notes

We  will meet at the MMC at 8:00AM sharp.  We will carpool out to the Equestrian Trailhead at Beacon Rock State park.  A Discovery Pass is required.

The Hardy Ridge trail takes you through the Backcountry of Beacon Rock State Park.  The trail starts at the Equestrian Trailhead and follows old logging roads up the hill.  It is a strenuous hike.  The hike is a B level hike and is between 8-9 miles with a 2000 ft elevation gain. When we reach the crest, we will go up from there to have lunch with a great view across the Gorge.  We may be a little early for wildflowers, but some should be blooming by then.

https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Hardy_Ridge_Loop_Hike

https://gorgefriends.org/hike-the-gorge/hardy-ridge-loop.html

Other Information
Driving Distance from Portland 88 miles
Distance - Round Trip 7 miles
Expected Duration Car to car in one day
Awards Qualified Awesome Ridges Award
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