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

Hardy Ridge Prospectus, maps, etc

Arrive @ Trailhead by 7:45.  WA Discover Pass required or $10 day use fee (paystation at Beacon Rock)

Carpool Google Doc

Message from Adonay:

  • We will promptly begin hiking at 8:00 am
  • Bring trekking poles if you have them and plenty of snacks and water to keep your energy high. This is a great hike to begin your conditioning for climbing with the Mazamas. Make sure you bring lunch, not less than two liters of water, and your ten essentials. One good way to get a workout and to save your knees on the way down is to carry extra weight in the form of water – a couple of old milk jugs. Each extra gallon of water adds eight lbs to your pack. Then pour it out at the top. It is not recommended to try new hiking boots/shoes on this trail. If you must, put a pair of old shoes in your pack in case you get hot spots or blisters.
  • The goal will be to maintain a pace of 2mph, so think spry. Weather looks good, but we're going to encounter some snow, so gear up! You may wish to bring a change of clothes for the car. No cotton, dogs, cats, guns, mind altering drugs, legal or illegal. Please bring your sense of humor. 
  • Plan on two hours of commuting and about five hours of hiking. This is a full day! I am planning on stopping by Thunder Island or Cascade Locks Ale House for food and refreshments on the way home, if anybody would like to join me.
  • Please feel free to reach out with any questions. See you tomorrow at the MMC!<br> Climb on,<br> Adonay Solleiro<br> 503.329.3413
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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