Dog Mountain Trail #147

Dogs Leashed

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views · Wildflowers · Wildlife

This is a well-known, easily accessible Columbia Gorge run, infamous in the springtime for its blossoms.

Drawn by the dramatic balsamroot blooms in May and June, crowds flock to this popular trail on weekends during the spring. On a clear day, the views from the top are spectacular! Mt. Hood to the south and Mount St. Helens to the northwest. Loop opportunity with Augspurger Trail #4407 which shares the same trailhead.

Walking Man Brewery or the Big River Grill in Stevenson are great post-run places for drinks and/or meals.

The run starts steeply through scattered woods. The beginning is arguable the hardest part of the hike! You'll shortly come to a junction; stay right for a less difficult ascent and continue to follow the switchbacks up. You are quickly rewarded with aerial views of the Columbia River and wildflowers in the spring.

If you are not up for the whole run, but would still like great views, there is a viewpoint a mile from the top, perfect for a picnic.

However, since you've come this far, continuing that last mile will bring you to an open, breezy meadow. No matter the time of the year, you'll always greet fellow runners at the top thanks to the great access of this trailhead.