Explore our world-class mountaineering library, apply for one of our grants, and dig in to your member resources.
The Mount Defiance hike is a steep hike with great views of the surrounding mountains on a clear day. You can make it a loop hike by going up the Starvation Ridge Trail and back down the Mount Definance Trail or you can go out and back on the same trail. More information can be found at http://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Defiance-Starvation_Loop_Hike
Activity Notes
Mt Defiance is the highest point in the Gorge. There's a communications tower at the top, with stupendous views if the sky is clear. The hike is steep and sustainedly so. The only hazards are possible poison oak on the lower parts of the trail and possible snow on the upper parts of the trail.
I find both sides of the Mt Defiance / Starvation loop so steep that it's hard to go faster than 1.5 mph, so that's what I'm listing it at. Speed demons need not apply. We will take the loop clockwise, starting on the Starvation (east) part of the loop, and there will be one spot to refill our water bottles 1,200' (vertical) short of the summit.
We will be leaving Gateway Transit Center at 05:30, traveling to I-84 exit 55, where each vehicle will need to display an Oregon State Parks day use pass. I expect to begin our hike shortly after 06:30. Directions can be viewed at https://maps.app.goo.gl/XY6t6ZzzasduqcEr6.
| Other Information | |
|---|---|
| Driving Distance from Portland | 52 miles |
| Driving Time from Portland | 1 hours |
| Distance - Round Trip | 11 miles |
| Expected Duration | Car to car in one day |
| Interesting Features | Mountain Views, Old Growth Trees |
| Relevant Maps | CG7 |
| Awards Qualified | Awesome Ridges Award, Gorge High Points, Wild Ones |
| Useful Links | GPS Track Map |
