After 3 years the Eagle Creek Trail in the Columbia Gorge has finally opened back up…. and the timing is perfect! 6 days into 2021 and I needed to get off my couch and into the woods to clear my mind and find some peace.
The Eagle Creek fire in 2017 burned 50.000 acres and shut down most of the gorge trails. The Forest Service has been slowly opening the hiking trails as they become stable for hikers.
The trailhead begins at Eagle Creek Campground, a 40 minute drive from Portland. The 14 mile hike will take you to Wahtum Lake, through an “enchanted” forest that follows Eagle Creek. If your not into hiking 28 miles round-trip there are several waterfall waypoints that are perfect stopping locations.
The Eagle Creek fire burned 50.000 acres and hiking through the burned forest I was in awe how resilient it is. The burned remains of the pine trees still standing tall among the moss covered white oaks that hover in the fog. The enchantment is so real I almost expect to see fairy’s fluttering around.
There are hundreds, maybe thousands, of waterfalls in the gorge and the Eagle Creek Trail has plenty to chase. I didn’t hike the entire 14 miles today, instead I chose the shorter 2.2 miles to Punchbowl Falls. From above the 35 foot falls tumbles into a large round pool of blue water that is mesmerizing.
While I turned around after 2 miles I’ll be back. The longer 14 mile hike to Wahtum Lake is a perfect summer hike. There are more waterfalls to see and back country camping is allowed.
Parking is limited so get there early. If you park in the designated spots, there is a $5 fee. There is also street parking past the hatchery.
Happy Hiking 🥾
michelle in the wild 