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'll meet at the MMC to carpool, leaving at 7.30 am sharp. Please get there early so that we can go over details, organize carpools and leave on time. 

We'll start hiking from the Equestrian Trailhead at 8.30 am. Directions to the Trailhead are here: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Hardy_Ridge_Equestrian_Trailhead 

Each car will need a Washington Discover Pass in order to park at the trailhead. 

After hiking through the forest for several miles, we'll emerge onto an open rocky ridge with great views of the gorge and mountains. With any luck there should be good wildflower displays along the ridge. The ridge portion of the trail is well used but it's rocky underfoot and it's not maintained; good hiking footwear is needed. We'll have lunch on the ridge or in the forest, depending on how the day goes. 

After descending the ridge, we''ll loop back through the forest to the trailhead. 

We'll maintain a steady 2-2.5mph pace on the way up, but with some breaks. Total distance around 8 miles, elevation gain about 2100 feet. 

More info: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Hamilton-Hardy_Loop_Hike 

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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