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 take the Hardy Ridge trail up to Phlox Point. When the weather is clear there are nice views from Phlox Point. We'll start at the equestrian trailhead and turn left at the hardy ridge trail. At the top of the loop we'll take an out and back offshoot to Phlox Point. This hike is approximately 8.7 miles with 2,277 feet of elevation gain.

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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