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Angels Rest in the Columbia River Gorge


Highlights:

A nice hike off the old highway that leads to awesome views of the Gorge
Near:Bridal Veil, OR
Scenery:
Distance:4.6 miles round trip
Elevation Gain:1880 ft
Hike Time:3 hours
Difficulty:Moderate
Trail Condition:Well maintained trail
HikeType:Out and Back



Summary:  Starting in a fern-filled forest, the trail climbs uphill for 0.6 mile before reaching the top of Coopey Falls, a 150 to 175 foot horsetail waterfall, and the footbridge crossing the creek. Continuing on, the trail begins to switchback uphill for 1.6 miles before reaching the ridge crest. Turn left at a junction to a spectacular gorge viewpoint. Use extreme caution at the steep cliff edge. Some nice flower features of this hike are the wildflower displays (which peaks in May) of blue-eyed grass, star-flowered Smiliacina, and trillium at lower levels. Also you get a grand view of the Gorge once you reach the top. There is even a bench to rest yourself on that overlooks the entire area.

Trailhead: Eastbound on I-84 Take Bridal veil exit # 28. The trailhead is south of the Historic Columbia River Highway, opposite the junction with the interstate access road in Bridal veil. Westbound I-84 Take Ainsworth State Park exit # 35 and follow the Historic Columbia River Highway for 7.1 miles (11.4 km).
This trail does not require a parking pass permit. (Lat:45.55968 Lon:-122.17295)

Trail Guides for Angels Rest in the Columbia River Gorge:
60 Hikes within 60 miles of Portland
by Paul Gerald  (Menasha Ridge Press)

Hiking the Columbia River Gorge
by Russ Schneider  (Falcon Guide)

Best Seasons: Fall, Spring, Summer,
User Groups: Hikers, Dogs,
Ranger Contact: Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, 503-668-1440
Localhikes Reporter: This hike was submitted by Drew Furnia, who has posted  23 other hikes on this site. To visit this reporters web site, click here.
Trail Reviews  Page 1 of 6   Submit your own review
Reviewed by JMc on 2/8/2010
My first hike EVER. I am about 75lbs overweight and I still made it to the top. Just take it slow and enjoy the view. I hurt but it was very worth it to me. A great view and a great accomplishment! I was in awe of the view the entire time.

Reviewed by F. Schaich on 9/15/2009
I've enjoyed this hike for the ten years I've lived in Portland. It's about the third most traveled in the Gorge. So start early or go during the week to avoid trail traffic. I was a member of the trail maintenance party that improved the trail by blazing a better trail through the rocks that were mentioned on previous posts. Believe it or not it only took 8 members of the Adventure Group and one USFS man about 6 hours to make all that improvement. Hope you all enjoy. Remember to keep your dogs on a leash, and mind smaller children and yourself especially at the top and on wet days the rocks are slick and slipping off to several hundred feet drop usually only permits recovery not rescue. Enjoy and be safe on the trail.

Reviewed by Tommy on 8/31/2009
Just a note about 'Viewer's' comments above: there is a part of the trail, just before you get to the top, that crosses a large section of boulders. This is part of the trail and you will notice a worn path across the rocks that has been well traveled. The field is fairly easy to traverse - if you were able to make it that far up the trail, you can definitely cross the rocks. Just past that field is the top, which is well worth it. Make sure to continue on the trail at the top and make the two small rock climbs (6 feet each) to get out to the tip of the ridge which overlooks the Gorge.

Reviewed by Dennis on 7/10/2009
Overall I thought it was worth the time. Amazing views of the Columbia! Would definately hike it again.

Reviewed by Debi on 5/25/2009
Enjoyed this, well groomed trail, hike yesterday mid morning on a beautiful warm and sunny day. It took one hour and 15 minutes to reach the top. That included many stops along the way up to take pictures of the blooming wildflowers, spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge, and Cooper Spur waterfall. The trail is well travelled by others. You will definitely get a work out, but every ounce of sweat is worth it. While you are sitting there at the top, you will discover for yourself why this extraordianry beautiful place is so appropriately named Angel's Rest.

Reviewed by J. CASS on 5/22/2009
So I talked my dad into going on a hike and what a better name than Angels Rest. The trail is groomed and easy to hike! The view is worth your time.... 2 hrs in 1 hr out.

Reviewed by Brian on 4/9/2009
On a Thursday late morning in early April, there were precious few people on the trail. I was one of five that I counted. A bit slick in spots, especially where there are no rocks in the trail, only mud. Use caution for steep drop-offs in spots. The view is worth the moderate climb!

Reviewed by Jolene on 1/26/2009
Hiked this trail yesterday. IT had snowed the day before and the trail was slick due to compacted snow. IN spite of the snow, the trail was quite full of other hikers. I'd chosen this trail for that purpose since I am a young woman who hiked the trail alone. I felt very safe, and free to enjoy the gorgeous scenery. But I definitely would recommend "shoe chains" and/or poles for hiking this trail in snowy conditions. Gorgeous views. Quick and easy to access from Portland too. I arrived to the trail from SE Portland, hiked the trail, and returned home within 3 hours. Would definitely due this hike again in any season.


Notice: Traveling in the backcountry can be hazardous. You are responsible for informing yourself about these hazards and taking necessary precautions. Information on this web site comes from volunteer reporters and may contain errors or omissions. A current guidebook and proper equipment are essential for safe enjoyment of the hikes posted on this site.
Keys: Oregon Hiking, Oregon Trails, Oregon Hikes, Multnomah County Hiking, Multnomah County Trails, Multnomah County Hikes

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