DOG MOUNTAIN

Get ready for the wildflower extravaganza on Dog Mountain. Usually at its height during the last of May each year, a hike during April will also reward the hardy with early bloomers, too.

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is a unique wildflower haven with innumerable observation vistas and abundant opportunities to get up close and personal with the dazzling beauty of spring.

A favorite point of immersion into the land of wildflowers is Dog Mountain, on the Washington side of the river, with its stunning westerly views of the Columbia River, Wind Mountain and the Oregon gorge cliffs to the south and west.

Although this is definitely a hike, not a walk in the park, the 2950 foot elevation gain and round trip of seven to eight miles (depending upon routes) is worth every step with visual rewards unsurpassed.

Some years produce a real bumper crop of the celebrated Arrowleaf Balsamroot, a ground hugging member of the brilliantly yellow sunflower family for which the gorge is so famous. Usually in late May, millions of these flowers drench the hillsides of Dog Mountain with velvety golden hues laced with spots of intensely blue Larkspur and Lupine, fire-engine red Indian Paint Brush and multitudes of various rainbow-tinted beauties.

Taking the less strenuous but still arduous and slightly longer west side route up Augspurger trail, rather than the much steeper Dog Mountain trail, is the easier way to reach the exposed summit to enjoy the euphoric drama at the top. Most of the hike on Augspurger is through beautifully wooded terrain that finally breaks out into the wide open spaces of awesome vistas.
Although the Augspurger trail is still a steep workout, wildflowers in showcase display are the reward.

Plan on lunch at the top while viewing lavishly colorful meadows and panoramic views of the river and surrounding terrain that will resonate in your mind for days.

Although spring is the peak period of wildflower activity, we've hiked the mountain during all kinds of weather in past years, including a few snow treks, with great enjoyment. One cold winter we found hoarfrost so thick on the trees that it looked like snow.

Winds can sometimes be fierce, so it's best to pay heed to weather reports for the area or simple go with a "so what" attitude and enjoy.

ELEVATION/MILEAGE
Elevation: 2950
Mileage: 7 to 8 miles depending upon route

DIRECTIONS
From Portland take I-84 east to Cascade Locks, crossing the Columbia River via the Bridge of the Gods, a toll bridge, and turn east on Washington State Highway #14. Drive approximately 11 3/4 miles to a huge graveled turnout parking area on the let.

TIPS
Watch for poison oak, particularly in the lower areas. Ticks are also presence, as with most of the eastern gorge area hikes. Check the trail map in the parking area to choose a route. If taking the Augspurger trail, go approximately 2.7 miles where the trail intersects with the Dog Mountain trail which goes for about another mile to the top.