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

8-9 total miles with ~2200 feet of elevation gain. We'll hike up to Hardy Ridge, and hope there isn't too much snow to stop us from reaching Phlox Point as well. Approach will be via the equestrian trail to the hiker's trail to the ridge, and then potentially up the spur to Phlox Point (if snow conditions allow). Return will be through the forest on the east side and back to the equestrian trail. If there's too much snow in the shady forest, we'll return via the approach route.

Carpooling from MMC recommended.

UPDATE 5/9: Looks like the trail should be nearly all snow-free. Microspikes no longer recommended. Reports indicate the trail is snow-free to the top and back.

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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