Beacon Rock Trail — Attraction in Washougal

Beacon Rock trailhead is a great casual-moderate hike of about 1.8 miles out and back with just about 570 ft of elevation gain. On clear or mostly clear days it offers some fantastic views while being a hike that just about anyone can complete.

While weather often greatly impacts how difficult it can be to find parking, I would recommend either getting there early (park opens at 8AM) or doing a mid-week hike when there are less people. The day use fee is $10 which can be paid onsite, or if you have Washington’s discover pass you can skip the day use fee.

As mentioned before this hike offers a great opportunity for a moderately easy hike. The elevation gain is enough to get your heart rate up, while not brutal enough to discourage those who may not hike on the regular. The path is nicely set out with railing and solid footing all the way to the top with plenty of switchbacks that provide space for a short rest when/if required. The hike will take most people a little under an hour to complete out and back.

One thing to note: there is not much space at the top of the rock, so on very busy days you may have to share the peak with a multitude of other groups. Only way to avoid this is to go early or attempt a midweek hike when the crowds are not around.

I’ve done this hike several times over the years and would recommend to novice hikers and veterans alike. It’s a short hike that offers some great views...

Beacon Rock Trail is definitely worth checking out if you’re exploring the Columbia River Gorge. It’s just across the river from Oregon and only about 1.8 miles round trip, but don’t let the short distance fool you - there’s a good bit of climbing involved. The trail zigzags up the rock with amazing views of the Gorge almost the entire way.

It’s a fairly steep hike, but doable for most people, including families with older kids. Just be aware that the trail is narrow and exposed in some spots, so if you’re hiking with younger children, you’ll want to keep them close. The view from the top is incredible - you can see the river, the Bonneville Dam, and miles of forested hills.

You’ll need a Discover Pass to park (available on-site for $10 or online), and there are restrooms and picnic tables at the trailhead, which makes it a nice place for a day trip. The trail is open all year, but it can get pretty slippery when it’s wet, and wind gusts at the top can be surprisingly strong, something to keep in mind for comfort and safety.

All in all, it’s a fun and rewarding hike with amazing scenery. My 10-year-old daughter...

Beautiful place for a hike and beautiful views of the Columbia River Gorge! The trail is steep but has lots of switchbacks (I think a sign said 52,) and a few steps in the trail. If you are afraid of heights, this may not be the best hike. The view is on the hike up and not up at the top. There is a small viewpoint at the top but it's tiny. Parking is on the side of the highway and is small so be prepared for issues during busy times. (We stopped on a Tuesday morning at the end of Sept and there was plenty of parking.) We did see dogs on the trail but they were all leashed, thankfully. The trail is steep and rocky cliffs are everywhere so keep your furry babies leashed. There is a small bathroom in the parking area. I did not see any picnic tables but there are parks nearby that are better equipped for picnics and other day use shenanigans. So happy we stopped for this hike. If you have enough zoom power in your camera, spotting scope or binoculars, you can see the Vista House to the West and Bonneville Locks and Dam...