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Columbia Gorge
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Hamilton Mountain The Washington side of the Columbia Gorge has some challenging climbs with rewarding views. For a real workout, dig out your hiking guide and check out Dog Mountain. For a more moderate hike, I like Hamilton Mountain in Beacon Rock State Park. It's 4 miles to the summit and about 5 miles for the return hike by a longer but less demanding trail. To get there, cross the 205 bridge north toward Vancouver and immediately after crossing the bridge head east on Washington Route 14 toward Camus. Head east through Washougal toward Stevenson. You catch some views where the highway clings to cliff edges at Cape Horn. After passing through Skamania, look for signs for Beacon Rock State Park. The rock is on the right, but you'll want the left hand turn immediately after the park headquarters building. Follow the paved road a mile or so to where it dead ends in a parking lot. There are restrooms and a picnic area. No parking passes or fees required, but you can leave a donation. The Hamilton Mountain trail begins here.
A view of Table Mountain from the summit. The backbone of the mountain coming down the Hardy Creek
route.
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