Wind Mountain Day Hike

Trail Name:  Wind Mountain

Enter/Exit: Wind Mountain Trailhead

Trip type: out and back

Difficulty: Moderate due to steepness

Distance: 2.8 miles round trip

Elevation: 1100’

Guide: https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Wind_Mountain_Hike

Review: Wind Mountain offers some of my favorite views in the entire Columbia River Gorge but is one of my least favorite to hike as it is seemingly steep for every step of the 1.4 miles to reach its summit. Starting from the parking area you walk aprox. 1000’ down the gravel road before starting on the trailhead that starts on the right. The trail is mostly shaded and offers occasional views east as you climb the steep trail. Trekking poles will help with the extra steep and loose sections and the switchbacks are needed as you gain elevation. Near the top you will see signs talking about this history of Wind Mountain as a place of spiritual exploration to the indigenous people of the area. Eventually the trail splits and taking the path to the right will open to a steep rock field with incredible views west of Carson and Stevenson Washington with Beacon Rock looming in the far distance. Continuing up and to the left of the trail and you will earn views west toward Dog Mountain and Hood River. You will see rock basins which I’ve heard were used for protection from the wind and prayer. Hopefully you remembered to pack a butt pad as there are no actual seats at the top and the best you will likely get is a butt shaped rock. Weather can be unpredictable there and an early morning hike could lead to cloud cover that often will burn off by mid-day in the summer time. The trail is often lightly traveled and I rarely have encountered more than 5 people at the top at any given time. The views are hard won but worthwhile. Cheers

Rating: Come back despite it being a butt kicker!

Rating Guide:

-Gram it: Check out the pictures on Instagram because this one is not worth seeing in person.

-Hike it: It’s short and sweet. Might as well knock it out in a day.

-Bag it: Pack a bag and spend the night.

-Bring a friend: Easy enough to bring a friend. Maybe this is where you can introduce someone to backpacking.

-Come Back: I will keep doing this trip it is so good!