By Mariah Cannon
If you’ve ever searched of top places to visit in Oregon or visited already before, you’ll know a top destination for travelers and locals alike is; The Columbia River Gorge (CRG). No matter what season or weather, this area of Oregon is just absolutely epic and is covered in some incredible PNW scenery.
For those of you that don’t know what it is, here’s some history of the area. The diverse and lush landscapes are otherworldly. The whole gorge itself spans 85 miles and consists of waterfalls, mountains, basalt columns, and plenty of sunshine and rain.
They say this formed long before the Cascade mountain range ever formed. Many many many centuries ago, volcanoes erupted and created over 20 major basalt flows, cutting through and creating the canyons and area you see today as you’re exploring. The area is rich in history and any road signs and signs you come across hiking are well worth the read!
Fun fact: The CRG has 15 species of flowers only found there, no where else in the world!
Bonus: All of these trails are dog friendly! Leashes are required. But you can bring your furry friend to enjoy the flowers too
When Should I go?
Well, every year it’s different based on snow and rain levels in the Winter. In 2022 the flowers weren’t at peak bloom until early June and this year (2023) everything is peak bloom as of April 13th.
It’s best to check the Pacific Northwest Wildflower Bloom Status Report for the area you’re wanting to visit!
1. Lyle Cherry Orchard
Distance: 5 miles round-trip
Elevation: 1,217 feet
Hike Type: Lollipop Loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Hazards: Poison Oak, Ticks, Rattlesnakes
Lyle Cherry Orchard is an absolute dream for wildflowers, with loads of Balsam Root, Lupine, and some Yellow Bells – along with a few spreads of little white flowers that I don’t quite know the name of. It is stunning and so worth the steep and rocky terrain.
It starts off steep, right from the parking lot. Be sure to arrive early, before 9am. I started the trail at 7am on a Friday and was the first one and I had the whole trail to myself until the way down. By the time Mav and I finished, there was no parking left.
2. Tom McCall Viewpoint
Distance: 4.8 miles round-trip
Elevation: 1,322 feet
Hike Type: Out & Back
Hazards: Ticks, Minimal shade cover
This Viewpoint is a popular hiking trail, on it you’ll find many variations of flowers including Lupine, Balsam Root, Indian Paintbrush, Prairie Stars, and Shooting stars. They all bunch together in multiple areas creating an insane setting.
This is also one you’ll want to go early to beat the crowds. A lot of this trail is fully exposed, bring lots of water and sun protection.
3. Memaloose Hills
Distance: 3.5 miles round-trip
Elevation: 607 feet
Hike Type: Lollipop loop
If you only have time for one hike on the Gorge, let it be Memaloose Hills. You will not regret it. This trail is loaded in Balsam Root with a few small patches of Lupine and Indian Paintbrush on the top hill.
I highly recommend starting clockwise and doing Marsh hill first and ending with Chatfield hill, which is steeper, but so much prettier to walk up then down in my opinion. The whole Southside is a sea of yellow Balsam Root.
You will drop down into a grass field next to some cows in between hills. There is a small stream of water to cross on the way up to March hill, a perfect spot to let the pups drink.
4. Catherine Creek Arch
Distance: 2 miles round-trip
Elevation: 381 feet
Hike Type: Loop
If you’re wanting a more relaxed trail with less elevation gain, but still want stunning wildflower views, Catherine Creek Arch is an awesome option! There is loads of purple flower fields throughout and you walk passed and old corral and cattle chute.
This trail is super rocky and there is some Poison Oak in areas. Catherine Creek runs through the East side of the loop and a pretty bridge to walk over it. At the “summit” of the loop, there is an arch in the Basalt rock that is a geologic wonder. I enjoyed this as a smaller/more family friendly hike.
5. Eagle Creek
Distance: 4-13+ miles round-trip
Elevation: 1,000-2,400 feet
Hike Type: Out & Back
Hazards: Steep drops offs, Ticks
A bucket list hike on the Gorge with so many different mileage options and different sights, you will never grow tired of Eagle Creek. Now there won’t be as many wildflowers as the ones I mentioned above, but where there is some, they are vibrant and super stunning.
You can hike all the way to the famous Tunnel Falls or just a short distance to Punchbowl Falls, both of which will not disappoint you.
Honorable Mentions
Here are some additional wildflower trails that I haven’t had the pleasure of doing, but I’ve heard are worth it.
Friendly Reminders
- Never pick wildflowers – It’s actually illegal in Oregon!
- Always leave no trace – If you pack it in, pack it out. Leave the land better than you found it!
- Know that you may encounter wildlife on these trails, amongst others. Do your research and come prepared within each area.
- Be respectful to other hikers/runners/etc. Let faster hikers pass and know that uphill hikers have the right away. (Always use your best judgement and communicate on a scenario basis).
Like this trail guide? Pin it for future adventures!
Let’s Get Adventuring!
Mariah
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