Wahkeena Trail Columbia River Gorge Plants

@andrewstuder

Oregon

•

Bridal Veil

After the Columbia River Gorge wildfire of 2017, a lot of the forests were left damaged. Now that it's been a couple years, the landscape has recovered and there's abundant regrowth — even as many of the burned trees continue to stand tall amongst the new vegetation. This trail will take you through one of the affected areas and if you time it right with the spring and summer months, you'll be able to capture the ground full of ferns and other vibrant plants.

Plan

Overview

Skill level

Moderate

Accessbility

Public Location

Hours

Anytime

Fee

Free

Pack

Wide angle lens (20mm)
Polarizing filter
Hiking attire
Water
Snacks

How to get there

N45° 34' 11.6508"W122° 06' 58.752"

This image was taken a mile or so east of Fairy Falls along Wahkeena Creek, which is just off of the Wahkeena Trail #420. The best way to get to this location is to drive. The parking lot is near the Old Columbia River Highway (45.575510, -122.127949) and will be packed with cars — especially during midday in the summer. After parking, follow the Wahkeena Trail #420, going past Wahkeena Falls and Fairy Falls. You'll have to ascend several switchbacks with a hefty amount of elevation gain, so make sure to wear hiking shoes. To find this exact viewpoint, reference the GPS coordinates. You won't miss it once you're there!