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TrailsWashingtonCentervilleColumbia Hills State Historical ParkColumbia Hills Vista Loop Trail

Columbia Hills Vista Loop Trail

A scenic loop hike through the eastern Columbia River Gorge in Columbia Hills State Park, featuring one of the best spring wildflower displays in the Columbia River Gorge. In March and May, thick carpets of Western Basalmroot and lupines blanket the gently rolling grassy hills. The hike also features grand views of the Columbia River Gorge along the Vista Loop Trail.

You will need a Washington Discover pass to park at the trailhead. Start at the Crawford Oaks Trailhead on Hwy 14. Hike this hike clockwise to avoid the crowds and to save the best scenery for last. The last leg of the hike features views of the Gorge.

Know Before You Go

Offers exceptional wildflower viewing, especially Western Balsamroot and Lupines, during spring (March-May).
Provides panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge along the Vista Loop Trail.
Located in Columbia Hills State Park near Centerville, WA, requires a Washington Discover Pass for parking, and is best hiked clockwise starting from the Crawford Oaks Trailhead to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views at the end.

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Distance: 6.5 mi
Difficulty: Moderate
Type: Loop
Est. Time: 3.3 hrs
Elev. Gain: 930'
Rating: 0.0

Contributed by: Jason Smith (Elementalfx)

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Added: September 15, 2017
Updated: September 30, 2018

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Total Change

811'

Ascent

930'

Descent

910'

Features

Vista / Lookout Point

Dogs

Water Source

Points of interest

Parking

45.657113, -121.086223
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Main Trailhead

45.657275, -121.086614
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Safety information

For your own safety: plan ahead, let someone know where you'll be, and hike at your own risk.

Hazards

Snakes (Rattlesnakes, Copperheads, others)

Poison Ivy or Poison Oak

Availability

All seasons

Surface type

Dirt

Trip Reports (Reviews)
Routes

Trip Reports (Reviews)

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Jason Smith (Elementalfx)

1.0 mile / 1.6 km

June 06, 2018

Started from the Dalles Mountain Ranch Trailhead, at the northern part of the loop. Didn't do the whole loop, just wanted to see the basalmroot in bloom for some photography, and see how they were doing too. The blooms were already starting to fade.

Trail Map

Hiking

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