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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
This hike will depart from the Equestrian Trailhead and continue up the Equestrian Trail before reaching a junction and continuing up the East Hardy Trail and ultimately ascending the east face of Hardy Ridge via the trail of the same name. We will make our way back down from the ridge on the Western side, connecting with the West Hardy Trail and ultimately back to the trailhead. Be prepared for winter conditions.
Directions: From SR 14 near milepost 35, come to Beacon Rock State Park. Turn north on Kueffler Road. Drive 1.1 miles and turn right; drive 0.4 mile to the large equestrian trailhead, the start of this 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 |
