Dog Mountain Trail
The Dog Mountain Trail at Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area near Home Valley, Washington is a strenuous 7-mile out-and-back trail that leads to the summit of Dog Mountain and features stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge area.Trails
This hike follows just one named trail: Dog Mountain Trail #147 and #147C - note that there are two routes named Dog Mountain Trail headed up this mountain.
Hike Description
This trek begins at the main parking lot for Dog Mountain and immediately starts up the Dog Mountain Trail. The Dog Mountain Trail follows many switchbacks as it slowly climbs the 2,900-foot mountain from what's essentially the banks of the Columbia River (~70 feet elevation).
Dog Mountain Trail #147 to #147C - Mile 0.7
Around mile 0.7, hikers will take a right-hand turn onto the Dog Mountain Trail #147C, which diverges from the Dog Mountain Trail #147. This shorter route, #147C, follows more switchbacks as it climbs Dog Mountain; however, note that this route is more difficult than #147.
Vista - Mile 1.95
Around mile 1.95, hikers will come across a south-facing vista, located at 1,600-feet in elevation above the Columbia River.
Dog Mountain Trail #147 - Mile 2.5
Around mile 2.5, hikers will reach a junction with the Dog Mountain Trail #147 once again - here take a right-hand turn to hop on #147 to reach the summit Dog Mountain.
Puppy Dog View - Mile 3
Around mile 3, hikers will pass a vista called Puppy Dog View located around 2,500-feet in elevation. Stay left at this junction to stay on Dog Mountain Trail #147.
Dog-Augspurger Tie Trail Junction - Mile 3.3
Just before the summit, hikers will reach the Dog-Augspurger Tie Trail (#147A) which is a popular day hike continuation from Dog Mountain over to Augspurger Mountain. Stay right at the fork here to head up to the summit of Dog Mountain.
Dog Mountain Summit - Mile 3.5
At mile 3.5, hikers will finally reach the summit of Dog Mountain which features stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Restrooms
As of 2020, there are restrooms provided just beyond the trailhead.
Parking
Hikers will find a very large parking lot at the coordinates provided. The National Forests recommends visitors check this hike out on a weekday, if possible, as the parking lot usually fills up by 10AM on weekends.
Popularity, Permits, and Fees
This area is popular in the Spring when the yellow balsamroot meadows are flowering. Other wildflowers such as the white phantom orchid, purple lupine, and Indian paintbrushes can also be found along this hike. During peak spring season on Saturdays and Sundays, hikers must obtain a permit, which includes a fee.
