Angel's Rest

Get a spectacular view of the Columbia River and the Gorge less than half and hour's drive from downtown Portland. Angel's Rest is popular year round and gets very crowded on weekends. Groups even climb in the evening to enjoy sunset from the cliffs at the top. But this trail can be more beautiful in winter than summer, and a lot less crowded. The winter photos below were taken in January, 2008.

The trail starts out in thick woods and soon opens up to views of the Columbia River below on your left. You'll follow a small stream for a short distance, then cross a bridge before beginning a long series of switchbacks up the mountain. There are good views along the way until you turn south for a short distance and cross a south-facing rockslide. Double back after the slide for the short ascent to the ridge at the top. There are cliffs with steep drops at the top, so use caution with small children and dogs.

To get there, take I-84 east from the city and look for Exit 28. At the top of the off ramp, turn right and drive a few hundred yards. At the next intersection, take ahard right - the parking lot is on your right and the trailhead on the left.

Distance from PDX: 28 Miles

Elevation: 1600 feet

Elevation Gain: 1500

Distance: 5.0 miles RT