If you’ve ever spent time enjoying the Columbia River Gorge, you know how incredibly beautiful it is. There’s even a short hike that will give you views of the mountain ranges and glacial waters that surround it, not to mention the fact that you’ll get to walk up an actual volcano. When you’re at the gorge, the Beacon Rock Trail is a must-see.
Beacon Rock State Park is located just outside of Stevenson.
Garry Rausch / alltrails.com This 5100-acre park sits right on the river and has historic significance dating back thousands of years.
The Beacon Rock Trail is only about a mile in length, but don’t expect an entirely easy trek.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com While the trail itself isn’t overly challenging, you’ll have to hike straight uphill for a while.
But as you’re climbing, you’ll actually be walking up an 848 foot lava core.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com Flooding that took place over thousands of years ate away at the volcano, leaving behind the rock solid basalt you’ll be climbing.
So what do you get for such a steep climb? Panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge, of course.
Josie Prog / alltrails.com If the uphill adventure doesn’t take your breath away, these views definitely will.
The elevation can make this area cold and windy in any season, so come prepared.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com The trail stays open all winter, but you’ll definitely want to bundle up if you plan to hike here anytime soon.
Bring your binoculars and prepare to take pictures, because this truly is an amazing trail.
Danielle Philippe / alltrails.com Believe it or not, the United States Army Corps of Engineers planned to destroy the rock to supply material for the jetty at the mouth of the Columbia. Henry Biddle purchased the rock for $1 in 1915, and he’s also the one who constructed this trail.
Bring your Discover Pass or purchase a $10 day pass to explore this stunning trail.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com It’s well worth it.
Beacon Rock State Park is definitely one of Washington’s more underrated state parks.
Garry Rausch / alltrails.com
This 5100-acre park sits right on the river and has historic significance dating back thousands of years.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com
While the trail itself isn’t overly challenging, you’ll have to hike straight uphill for a while.
Flooding that took place over thousands of years ate away at the volcano, leaving behind the rock solid basalt you’ll be climbing.
Josie Prog / alltrails.com
If the uphill adventure doesn’t take your breath away, these views definitely will.
nayyef Hrebid / alltrails.com
The trail stays open all winter, but you’ll definitely want to bundle up if you plan to hike here anytime soon.
Danielle Philippe / alltrails.com
Believe it or not, the United States Army Corps of Engineers planned to destroy the rock to supply material for the jetty at the mouth of the Columbia. Henry Biddle purchased the rock for $1 in 1915, and he’s also the one who constructed this trail.
It’s well worth it.
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Address: Beacon Rock Trail, Stevenson, WA 98648, USA
