“The stunning views and unparalleled springtime flowers make this one of the most popular hikes in the Gorge. On a good day, you can get a bird’s eye view of Mt. Hood and the Columbia River. In the spring the top is carpeted with vibrant yellow balsam root. Although the trail is steep and sometimes crowded, this hike is unquestionably worth the effort.”
Washington Trails Association
DOG MOUNTAIN HIKE LATE APRIL – MID JUNE 13
Every hiker on the Dog Mountain Trail system on Saturdays and Sundays during peak wildflower season (as well as on Memorial Day) will be required to carry a permit (or digital proof thereof). Permits available at Recreation.gov or via the shuttle
RIDE THE SHUTTLE TO HIKE WITH NO PARKING HASSLES OR TRAFFIC
When you ride the Dog Mountain shuttle, your car stays behind (and the $5 for parking stays in your pocket), so you’re free to enjoy not only the hike up the mountain but also a beautiful ride through the Gorge.
- Catch the shuttle from Stevenson, Washington Fairgrounds
- Look for a CAT bus
- A permit is included automatically and each permit is good for one individual on the day it is issued.
- Seats are available on a first come, first served basis.
- The shuttle runs about every 30 minutes from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekends
- The last shuttle to depart Stevenson will be 1:00 p.m. and the final shuttle departing the trail head will be at 5 p.m.
GETTING TO THE SHUTTLE FROM CASCADE LOCKS
BIKE OR WALK
4 miles one-way. Walk with your bike across the Bridge of Gods for $1, cross Hwy 14 with extreme caution and enjoy a leisurely ride or stroll to the Dog Mountain Shuttle stop, where you can lock up before hopping on.
GETTING TO CASCADE LOCKS
The Columbia Area Transit (CAT) bus offers daily service from Portland’s Gateway Transit Center to Cascade Locks (also stopping at Multnomah Falls and Hood River). There are many places to explore while in Cascade Locks before or after the hike from brew pubs to native fish to ice cream cones that weigh a pound.
AFTER THE HIKE
SUPPORT LOCAL
There are lots of great places to eat or grab a post-hike brew in Stevenson -the fairgrounds stop is a short 10-minute walk to the heart of downtown. Cascade Locks is also a great place to visit if you are lucky to have a wait there.
STAY THE NIGHT
Be lulled to sleep by the Columbia River, and be poised for a new adventure. Best Western Plus in Cascade Locks or Skamania Lodge in Stevenson both have river views and indoor pools.