Wind Mountain Trail

Wind Mountain gives you great views without making you work too hard for them. It’s a great hike for families and beginners, taking you to a mountaintop with views over the Columbia River Gorge over the span of a few short miles.

While this trail is generally well-kept and easy to follow, it can get slippery if it’s wet out. On the flip side, the trail can be very dusty if it’s been dry, which can be slippery as well. Watch your footing if you’re hiking in either condition. Some hikers may prefer to bring poles on this hike, but they’re not a must-have for this trail.

From the parking lot, walk down the gravel road to the trailhead on your right. The wide switchbacks will take you across a talus slope before the trail evens out as you hike through the forest. The canopy high above you, you might be treated to birdsong as you go.

About a quarter of a mile past the entrance to the forest, watch for a sign that explains the cultural and historical significance of the mountain, then continue on a bit further to the summit. From the top, look out to Dog Mountain, Mitchell Point, Table Mountain, Greenleaf Peak, and Mount Defiance, which is the tallest mountain in the gorge. If you’ve scored a clear day, you can see Mount Saint Helens.

After you’ve enjoyed the views, retrace your steps to the parking area.