10 Best Trails in Hood River

Hood River is where Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wonder collide!

Nestled in Mount Hood’s shadow and along the mighty Columbia River, Hood River, Oregon, is an invitation to adventure. Every trail tells a story—from bright green forests and basalt cliffs to grand meadows overflowing with wildflowers.
From the steep ascent of Dog Mountain to the floral beauty of Memaloose Hills, these Hood River hiking trails offer breathtaking views, peaceful moments, and adventure-packed excitement.
Put on your best boots, awaken your sense of wonder, and begin your Hood River trails venture.

The Coyote Wall Trail is on the Washington side of the Gorge, directly across the river, spanning 6.8 miles with a moderate elevation gain of 1,624 feet. It showcases wildflower blooms and spectacular views extending to Mount Hood. Hillsides explode with color in spring, with purple lupine and golden balsamroot contrasting against the cliffs. Access the trailhead via Highway 14, across the Hood River Bridge, noting that parking is limited (24 spaces). Hike the 6.8-mile loop or extend via the Little Maui Trail. A steep section called "Little Moab" hugs the cliffside with stunning views. Be cautious of rattlesnakes and ticks; dogs must be leashed.

Fifteen minutes east of Hood River, Memaloose Hills Trail climbs 600 feet and begins at a small gravel parking area near the Memaloose Overlook on the Historic Columbia River Highway. This 2.8-mile lollipop loop winds through flower-filled meadows. In May, golden balsamroot and violet lupine dominate, while later months bring columbine. Summits Marsh Hill and Chatfield Hill provide sweeping views of Mount Hood framed by wildflowers. Dogs on leash are welcome, and no trail pass is required.

Dog Mountain rises to about 3,000 feet over 3 miles in the Columbia River Gorge. This 6.5-mile hike starts with a steady incline through forest before opening to a ridge and summit with expansive views. Late spring brings wildflower meadows in yellow, purple, and red. Hike out-and-back via Trail 147C, or the counterclockwise lollipop loop, starting from the Dog Mountain Trailhead, about 14 miles from Hood River.

East of Coyote Wall, the Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail begins at a small gravel pullout along Highway 14. The 5-mile loop climbs 1,200 feet along a ridge with Columbia River Gorge vistas and wildflower patches. The trail is dog-friendly on leash and requires no pass. Watch for rattlesnakes, ticks, and poison oak.

From the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead near Cascade Locks, Dry Creek Falls is a 2-mile hike along the Pacific Crest Trail, about 25 minutes from Hood River. The trail ascends steadily before leveling out through forest to reach the 74-foot waterfall. Basalt cliffs and moss create a picturesque setting.

Wahclella Falls is a 1.9-mile round-trip hike with a 223-foot elevation gain. The trailhead is near Bonneville Dam, with limited parking. Hike along Tanner Creek through a narrow canyon to a 60-foot waterfall cascading into a turquoise pool framed by mossy rock walls. Access requires a Northwest Forest Pass, America the Beautiful Pass, or per-vehicle day-use fee.

Located along Highway 35 on Mount Hood’s east slope, Tamanawas Falls Trail is a 3.4-mile out-and-back hike, 25 miles from Hood River. The trail winds through shaded forest beside Cold Spring Creek, climbing 600 feet to a 100-foot waterfall in a mossy amphitheater. Dogs on leash are welcome.

The Beacon Rock Trail is 1.5 miles round-trip, climbing 574 feet. A short stair-step ascent takes hikers to the top of the monolith on the Washington side of the Gorge. Trailhead parking is available in two lots along Highway 14, with flush restrooms and a Discover Pass machine nearby. Dogs on leash are allowed. Note: Tree canopy limits some summit views.

Hamilton Mountain Trail is a 7.5-mile lollipop route with 2,100 feet elevation gain, located in Beacon Rock State Park, 35 minutes from Hood River. Starting from the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead, cross the bridge from Hood River to Bingen. The hike passes Rodney Falls, Pool of the Winds, and Hardy Creek footbridge before climbing through switchbacks to Little Hamilton Mountain. Views include Table Mountain, Mount Adams, and Bonneville Dam. Return via the Equestrian Trail or alternate Don’s Cutoff.

This trail along the Historic Columbia River Highway begins at the Horsetail Falls Trailhead. The 0.9-mile round-trip trail climbs 331 feet from the roadside to Ponytail Falls, where hikers can walk behind the 60-foot waterfall. Horsetail Falls (174 feet) greets you at the trail start. Dogs are welcome on leash; parking is limited.

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