Winter in the Gorge: My favorite day hikes

Waterfall on Herman Creek Trail

I primarily go day hiking in the Gorge during the winter time because it gets very little snow compared to the mountains, high and rushing rivers with dramatic waterfalls along quiet trails. Spots like Cedar Swamp and 71/2 Mile Camp near Twister Falls are also good winter backpacking trip to boot, offering good exploring options further in. Plus, most of these trails are so close that you can have a great day hike and still be back home for an early supper Some special things to bring along on excursions here should include some good rain gear, microspikes for icy or snowy sections, waterproof running/hiking shoes and gaiters. Dry days after long periods of heavy rains and below freezing cold snaps are my favorite times to explore the frozen falls and fragrant forests of the Columbia River Gorge, and here are my favorite spots with round trip mileage included.

Easy

1. Angel’s Rest-4.6 miles

2. Triple Falls-4.4 miles

3. Latourell Falls-2.3 miles

Moderate

1. Hamilton Mountain-7.6 miles

2. Eagle Creek to High Bridge-6.6 miles

3. Silver Star Mountain-8.7 miles

More difficult

1. Larch Mountain from Wahkeena Falls TH-15.6 Miles

2.Wyeth Trail to North Lake-11.4 miles

3. Eagle Creek to Twister Falls-14 miles

4. Herman Creek to Cedar Swamp-13.8 miles

Tunnel Falls on Eagle Creek