Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Eagle Creek - Tunnel Falls

Distance: 12 miles out and back
Eagle Creek Trail is one of the most popular destinations in the Gorge for hiking enthusiasts. The Trailhead is located directly off I-84, Exit #41. The Exit is only available traveling eastbound, so travelers from Hood River will need to double back from Exit #40. Make sure and arrive early in the day! Parking lot space fills-up quick in the summer.
Metlako Falls

Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Bagby Hot Springs

Distance: 3.5 miles out and back
 Located about 40miles south of Estacada off Clackamas Highway (Hwy 224), Bagby Hot Springs is a natural wonder of the Pacific Northwest.
From the Earth to your Tub

Monday, February 27, 2012

Angel's Rest

Distance: 4.8 miles out and back
Sharing parking space with Bridal Veil Falls', the Angel's Rest Trailhead is located in the Columbia river Gorge just off Exit #28 from I-84. Considering the short hike to the summit and its relative proximity to Portland, Angel's Rest is a very popular summer season hike.
Rock-slide path

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Silver Falls State Park

Distance: 6.9 mile loop
Silver Falls State Park - Oregon’s largest state park - is a giant canyon, containing several trails and a plethora of diverse waterfalls. To reach the trailhead from Portland, head south on I-5 in route to Salem. As you approach Salem, take exit 253 east on HWY 22. Taking exit 9 will put you on Silver Falls HWY, which you will remain on until reaching the park. There are plenty of signs along the road to remind you of your destination.  
South Falls

Saturday, February 25, 2012

Ecola State Park

Distance: 3+ miles out and back
Ecola State Park provides remarkable ocean views, picturesque beaches, and plenty of colorful sea creatures. Driving along Highway 101, Ecola State Park is located just north of Cannon Beach.  Before you begin, check out the immediate park area before jumping on the trail. A short paved path leads to several viewpoints of Cannon Beach, Haystack Rock, and the Ocean Arch.
The Ocean Arch

Friday, February 24, 2012

Wahclella Falls

Distance: 1 mile out and back
Wahclella Falls is a splendid break along I-84 (Exit 40).  If you are headed to Skamania Lodge, Hood River, Pullman (Go Cougs!), or anywhere along Highway 26, seriously, take 25 minutes (1 mile RT) to checkout Wahclella Falls. You won’t be disappointed!
Wahclella Falls

Thursday, February 23, 2012

Munra Point

Distance: 6 miles out and back 
Have you ever read a hike review describing the hike as "Very difficult?" I mean, it's not rock climbing, what could be so difficult about walking, right? Munra Point is the definition of a difficult hike! A round trip trek of nearly 6 miles, Munra Point ascends over 1,000 feet in less than half a mile. More of a steep, dirt crawl than a hike.

I would suggest starting from Wahclella Falls Trailhead (Exit 40 off I-84). From the parking lot, follow the bridge west until you find trail #400 (narrow passage in the brush). After heading south, switching back, and gaining some elevation, you will parallel the Columbia River heading west for about a mile.

Once you reach an I-84 bridge near Moffett Creek, the ascent begins. Locate the "unmaintained trail" sign and start climbing.
Hazy View of the Columbia Gorge 

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Triple Falls

Distance: 6.4 miles out and back
My go-to trip for any novice hiker - smooth, easy hike, with tons of water falls. A perfect sample of The Gorge forest. Very easy to find. Just head East on I-84 (for 33 miles), then take exit 35 off the highway. Follow signs from here.
Horsetail Falls

Tuesday, February 21, 2012

Hello

Hello & Welcome! My name is Jordan Petrusich and I live in the beautiful Pacific Northwest! I have created this blog to share my love for northwest hiking! I'll be sharing my hiking experiences in the Pacific North West. My goal is to galvanize outdoor adventure by documenting my experience!