Hike the Cape Horn Trail

Washougal, Washington

4.3/5

based on 4 reviews

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Added by David Schelske

Distance: 7.5 miles (loop). Elevation gain: 1,400'5 miles to the top viewpoint and back. Great hike for being so close to town. Great views of the Columbia Gorge. Amazing wildflowers.

The Cape Horn Trail is great for those who are short on time, but still want to get outside for something close by with great views.

Located just 35 min east of Portland, the Cape Horn Trail offers a few different possibilities for you to hike. The whole loop (lower section is closed from Feb 1st to July 15th for bird nesting) is around 7.5 miles and offers great views up high and a pretty lower section near the river.

When the lower section is closed you can do a nice 5 mile out-and-back from the main parking lot up to the Nancy Russell overlook. The route has lots of switchbacks and elevation gain, but the views and wildflowers make it more than worth it.

If you only have a short while but are dying to get out, drive to the top, at the end of Strunk Road, and park at the gate. From there, it is an easy 1/3 mile out to the viewpoint where you can kick back and take in the view from the Nancy Russell Overlook.

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Reviews

Clayton Lukens

Hike the Cape Horn Trail

06/17/20

Nice hike, nothing crazy but easy and a good view of the Gorge.

3.0

Sarah

Hike the Cape Horn Trail

08/26/16

This is one of my favorite hikes. I've done the upper section quite a few times and love it!

5.0

Explorer

Madison Sankovitz

Explorer

Hike the Cape Horn Trail

06/28/16

This hike is not too difficult and the view of the Columbia River Gorge is amazing. I saw very few people on the quaint trail!

5.0

Eric Bomblatus

Hike the Cape Horn Trail

08/03/15

Great write up. This hike offers wonderful views of the Colombia River. I started my hike from the Skamania Park & Ride on Salmon Falls Rd and made it to Pioneer Point. Recommended for a quick jaunt out of town or for visiting friends. Definitely going back to do the loop.

4.0

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

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Hike the Cape Horn Trail

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Angel's Rest

Devil's Rest-Wahkeena Falls Loop

Bridal Veil Falls

Wahkeena Falls

Hike to Fairy Falls

Hike to Wiesendanger Falls

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