Beacon Rock

Beacon Rock is both a rock and a state park. The rock is 848 feet tall and is a popular tourist destination. The State Park has 4482 acres of picnic areas, hiking trails and forest roads. The State Park is also the jumping off point for Hamilton Mountain. To reach the top of the rock, you climb a dizzying set of stairs and ramps.

The rock is one of the largest free-standing monoliths in the world. Henry Biddle purchased the rock in 1915 for $1 and during the next three years constructed a heavily switchbacked trail, handrails and bridges. The three-quarter mile trail to the top, completed in April 1918, leads to spectacular views of the Columbia Gorge.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers planned to blow the rock up to build a jetty at the mouth of the Columbia, and dug three caves on the rock's south side. To save the rock, Biddle's family tried to make it a state park. At first Washington refused the gift, but changed when Oregon offered to accept.

Note: The trail to the top of the rock is gated and closed at night and may be closed at other times too if weather conditions are unsafe.

Distance from PDX: 53 Miles

Elevation Gain: 848 feet