Wildflowers in Bloom at Coyote Wall

Photos by Kane Finders

One great option, Coyote Wall, sits just east of Hood River on the Washington side of the Columbia and offers a steep climb to the top of the Gorge rim. Along the way are streams, spectacular views, and plenty of wildflowers.

To be prepared for this hike, it is a necessity to bring water, food, and other survival tools. While this trail is popular, there are sections where there won’t be anyone else around for a while. It would take first responders some time to get up the steep slope if you are injured, so being prepared is strongly advised. Also, make sure to wear appropriate footgear. The hike back down was very steep, and I ended up with blisters. Make sure to bring shoes or boots that properly fit and can handle the steep and rocky terrain. 

This trail is very popular during spring and summer, so make sure to leave early to avoid not getting a parking spot. I recommend crossing over the river in Cascade Locks (at the Bridge of the Gods), as I enjoyed the drive much better on the Washington side than on Interstate 84 in Oregon.

Upon arriving, there are two places you can park. Driving east on the Lewis and Clark Highway (Route 14), you will first see the main trailhead on your left. If that lot is full, continue east until the next left turn, where there is parking on the road shoulder and access to the trail.

I recommend using a map and planning out what trails you are going to take up to Coyote Wall beforehand, as there are several different paths. Keep in mind that horses and mountain bikers may be present on the trails, too. Be ready to quickly move out of the way to the latter barreling down the grassy, open slope.

While the six-mile roundtrip hike was a bit difficult, I would say it was very much worth it. At any point along the trail, you have spectacular views of the Gorge, and of course, many wildflowers, including balsamroot and lupine in full bloom right now in April.

On the final ascent toward the Gorge rim, you have the choice of either hiking straight up or taking switchbacks. I recommend the switchbacks, as they are less hard on your legs. They also take you to the ledge of the Wall itself (a massive wall of exposed basalt that towers hundreds of feet over an adjacent gully) leading to spectacular views you wouldn’t get just by hiking straight up.

Be careful on the way down, which I found more difficult than the ascent due to how steep it is. Remember to take it slow, to avoid injury, and to take breaks when you need to. If you enjoy this hike and are looking for a more difficult hike with even more wildflowers, be sure to check out Dog Mountain. Be aware, the climb and descent on Dog Mountain is more severe than Coyote Wall so be sure you are ready for that.

Overall, Coyote Wall is a hike for which pictures and words can’t do justice. You need to see it to believe it. While steep, it is pretty short in clocking in at only six miles, total – making the trip out and the experience very worthwhile.