Wind Mountain Trailhead — Attraction in Hood River

Wind Mountain is a moderate difficulty hike located shortly off the beaten path of highway 14 in the Gorge. The parking area is ample, and does not require a pass or fee to park, though it’s much less a parking lot and more of a gravel and dirt clearing. There are no restrooms at this trailhead, so come prepared. This hike offers a decent elevation gain total of around 1,100 feet and it’s modest length of about 2.5 miles out and back means it is a steep incline throughout the duration of the hike. I’d recommend bringing sturdy hiking shoes as the ascent is often rocky and can require sure footing even for the more experienced hiker. Moving at an average pace with a few breaks the hike takes about 1.5-2 hours to complete, out and back. Contrary to the name of the mountain, the vast majority of the hike is protected from the wind and sun, though when you get to the top it can be very winding depending on the overall weather. Speaking of the peak, the views are spectacular as is often the case at the apex of many of the Gorge’s high elevation hikes. There is viewpoints both facing the east and west that give great views of the river and other nearby mountains/peaks. Done this hike on several occasions at different times of the week and day and it never seems to be busy, offering a great opportunity to hike while crossing paths...

This trail was a little on the scary side for me. The trail was narrow, slippery dirt, lots of rock, roots in the trail. Lots of steep drop offs. A couple of spots on the trail I didnt feel safe standing and walking down on the descent so I crab walked it. Not very good trail maintenance. I'm glad I experienced it, but I'm fine with just one visit. Loved the wind at the top. I started around 5am on 7/17/18 and there was no wind till I got to the top. I was loosing buckets of sweat on the way up. I saw one person going up and 5 people on my descent. Also saw a woodpecker, a pheasant or something like it and heard very close elk rutting sounds, but didn't see them. On the way down I also heard a lot of loud human noise, but never came across a group making all the noise. Apparently there are also multiple parking areas. I parked on...

This is hands down the best get ready hike in the Gorge. So much to see and do. Native American history abounds. To add to your adventure near the top on the West side is the best natural bench (tree limb) in the whole gorge. The view is astounding. Pro tip: there is a side faint trail about 1/4 mile into the hike, to your left. It's hella steep, only attempt with proper footwear. As you pop out the view will leave you gobsmacked. Be careful as a miss-step will certainly lead to your demise. Bring a real camera, your phone can't do this place justice. The trail up is just that up and up. This trail is in okay shape. Way easier than the suffering on nearby...