This is a very well maintained state park that had incredible views yesterday. The peacefulness of the rock can be felt as soon as you start walking it. It's very well maintained all the way to the top and there are even handrails. I highly recommend this hike for some peaceful time alone or with others to accompany you. Parking is about $10 by the way. Let the rock refresh your soul and revitalize your spirit as it did mine. There were many moments where I paused and stopped just to take in the the beauty that was presented to me on the trail. The views of the water below are gorgeous you can see from miles and miles from the top. read more

Amazing hikes & views at the park. Beacon Rock Trail, that goes up to the top of the rock, is well maintained and had gorgeous views the whole way up. Even the drive through the Gorge to get to the park is amazing. I would absolutely recommend visiting! Only issue I ran into was that the parking payment meter in the parking lot was broken and I had to buy a pass online and write the info on a scrap piece of paper like the taped-on signage on the meter said. Many over grown blackberry bushes, but they were not a problem. read more

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Beacon Rock provides amazing views! The hike is about 1.8 miles round trip and it goes up hill. I would love to visit again. read more

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Went there once for a 1 day trip to Oregon loved this hike super easy nice views. 20mins away from some fire tacos (go north) Not to far from the popular Dam/other hikes read more

Camped here for long weekend over July 4th! It was my first time visiting and I feel like Beacon Rock is a bucket list item for people in the Portland area. Whether you come here for a day trip or to camp, it's absolutely worth making the visit. The hike up Beacon Rock is of course a highlight of the area, though the park is much larger in its entirety. The switchback system is really cool, the views are gorgeous, people are friendly as they huff and puff their way up the hill. We saw all sorts of people doing the hike, from little kids to older folks, so anyone can do this. Just be prepared for a lot of uphill, be ready to take breaks, and bring water. Though the best views are on the way up and not from the actual summit, I highly recommend doing the whole thing for the sense of accomplishment it will bring you. As for the camping itself... Cons of the campsite: Loud (crows,* train,** people) Dirty bathrooms Lots of bugs/mosquitos Sloped or small sites No firewood sold at the campsite Pros of the campsite: Close proximity to Portland Great hikes Dog-friendly on leash Well-maintained landscaping Limited cell signal Not too far from the small towns of North Bonneville and Stevenson * We were victims to an animal raid of our camp. They ate ALL of our bread. Don't be like me and leave your food out even if it's just for a short walk. ** Some people dislike noise of the trains from the campsite. I actually enjoyed them, once I started to pretend that I was in an old western movie and the train rolling through carried horses and bandits and coal. Last but not least, you need either a Washington Discovery Pass, to pay a $10 day use fee, or to pay for a campsite. read more

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When researching a hiking trail that wasn't to strenuous but wasn't super easy either, Beacon Rock seemed like the perfect one for my hubby & I to climb during our recent trip to Washington. Since sharing is caring here are a few of my FYI's: ~The entire hike (up & down) took us about 2 hours total & this included us stopping multiple times along the trail, to take in the beautiful scenery, take pictures, & catch our breath a few times. :)) We went in early September & the weather was just perfect! ~There is a restroom onsite for both men & women at the base of the trail. It was very clean & well stocked w/ toilet paper..both which were appreciated for sure. :)) ~There are picnic tables at the base of Beacon Rock. ~There are rails going up the entire way on Beacon Rock & I did read in some of the other reviews that stated, it was a "stroller friendly" hike & IMO, I would say that "stroller friendly" is not entirely accurate. The climb up Beacon Rock is going to get your heart pumping & the trail itself isn't super smooth so pushing a stroller straight up will be a challenge in some spots since the ground isn't even in some spots. I wanted to mention that the very top of Beacon Rock isn't a large area & can feel crowded if there are other people w/ you at the top. When my hubby & I finally made it to the top, there were 3 people already there & there just wasn't a lot of space for us to move around & still keep a safe distance between us & them for COVID precautions. BUT there is a great little spot right BEFORE the very top of Beacon Rock for you to stop & take pictures or to sit down & hydrate yourself. IMO, I think this little spot is a better scenic back drop for pictures than the very top of Beacon Rock because it has a huge rock to sit on & the stairs going to the very top is right next to that huge rock. I'm so glad I added Beacon Rock to our vacation itinerary because it really was perfect! Till next time Beacon Rock! ~Rebecca out read more

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I've been wanting to hit this trail for a while, but every time we've stopped by it's been too packed...or too windy. But I finally got to go last weekend, Sunday morn about 10. Both lots were filling up, but we were determined! Side note: there is a bathroom and picnic tables at the head. The start of the trail at the base is great, with lovely massive boulders and trees in the shade of the massive rock. From there, it's zig zag zig zag zig....up to the top, repeat back down. Even with a lot of people on the path, it's wide enough to pass without trouble. The path itself has both rocky uneven footing and flat boards. It's essentially a 1 1/2 mile-long viewpoint of the gorge, fabulous. Pretty easy pitch and footing for most any individual, just watch your step. The top of the rock viewpoint is a relatively small area, and with a group there opting to cop-a-squat and grab a snack, we had to squeeze by to enjoy the sites. But really the journey up and down is what it's all about anyway...and it's a fun journey. I really loved this trail. So incredibly unique, it's really a work of art both in construction and views. read more

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Amazing!! Views are a big payoff! A must see!! I'm not an avid hiker and was expecting this hike to really work the legs. It was actually easier than I thought, easy to navigate and very safe. It took us about 40 min to get to the top, stopping to take photos at almost every turn. The views were that great! The slope was gradual, both up & back down. It wasn't too busy, going on a weekday around 11 am. I would recommend this hike to anyone, including families with kids, and really any age at all! read more

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This park is fantastic. There are many hiking options. Hamilton Mt. is a challenge, but the view are amazing! Most recently, my family hiked Beacon Rock. It's an easy hike if you're in decent shape. My four year old, who has hiking experience, did the whole thing on her own. After hiking, we crossed into the the part of the park with picnic area and we were happy to find that they have a play structure. However, the structure has been there since I was a small child, so it was really outdated - I'm old. read more

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Fairly easy hike up the rock, fantastic views. Dog friendly and totally worth an annual parking park pass if you do more than 3 hikes a year

Relatively easy climb (albeit time consuming) via switch-backs to an incomparable view of the Columbia Gorge. If you're in this area don't miss out on this opportunity or the views. read more

Over 5,000 acre park. Great views of the Columbia River Gorge even on a rainy day. The Beacon Rock Trail climbs nearly 900 ft with 50+ switchbacks. We didn't go all the way up because of rain and clouds, but made it about 1/3 of the way up to see the Columbia River Gorge, Bonneville Dam, and Pierce Wildlife Refuge. I would call the trail a moderate hike, especially when wet. To the west of the rock itself is a campground and picnic area. There is about 8 miles of trails up there, a decent amount of parking, and bathroom facilities. Check the website for updated camping fees by season. Note the website has been updated and is here https://parks.state.wa.us/474/Beacon-Rock read more

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Beacon Rock State Park pretty much epitomizes why I'm contemplating moving to the area. Lush, green and beautiful, you feel so connected to nature and it really motivates you to get your steps in. Parking is super easy, when I went, it wasn't busy at all. And then the start of the trail is right there. The hike up the mountain is super easy and perfect for beginners. It's also dog friendly. My friends' dog seemed to enjoy the scenery and exercise as much as I did. Definitely check it out if you're in the area. read more

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Nice little family friendly trail on the Columbia River. From the bottom it looks more challenging than it actually is, the trail is well maintained, not too steep and surprisingly easy to climb. The three 10 yrs old in our party had a blast, despite the windy conditions. The sun helped a bit to be honest. On the way up there are many opportunities for great pictures and the view at the top is really stunning. If you're looking for a long trail to spend the morning, this is not it, it goes by quite fast. I think we did it in 40 mins or so, all the way up and back. I liked the fact that the parking had a parking machine on which you could buy a daily or yearly state park pass. Highly recommended if you're in the area and want an easy 1hr family friendly trail. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

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Due to the fires that happened along the Columbia River Gorge in 2017, a lot of the sights that we wanted to see were actually closed until further notice. With time to spare, we wanted to make sure we saw as many sites as possible. We asked around and was recommended to come to Beacon Rock State Park across the river in the state of Washington. From Multnomah Falls, it was about a 45-minute drive to crossover and get to this location. We crossed over via the Bridge of the Gods (Cascade Locks), which had a $2 toll fee. Once we arrived at the site, we had to pay a parking fee, which I believe was $10. They do accept credit card here, which was great! There's a little parking meter by the parking area to pay with a card. The hike itself was totally doable! We got up to the top of the rock in about 45 minutes. They did a great job of making it very easy for people to walk on the trail. We went on a rather warm day, so the hike was a bit tiring for me, as the sun was beaming on us. Although this trailhead didn't have a rewarding waterfall at the end, it did provide some awesome views of the Columbia River Gorge. A recommended stop if you are visiting the PNW! read more

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This is a nice little park that I often stop at when running SR14 towards Stevenson. They have a nice boat ramp and dock and a great view of Beacon Rock. I've gotten some good pictures there. There's also an RV park and other amenities. A State pass is required although you can stay for free for up to 15 minutes which is sufficient time to use the rest room, stretch my legs and take some pictures. read more

From the bottom, Beacon Rock looks to be an imposing hike, but don't let that deter you. In actuality, the trail is one of the easiest, and shortest, hikes in the Columbia River Gorge. Perfect for families (as long as your kids listen and are capable of heeding your warnings), seniors and tourists, as it offers a fantastic view of the natural beauty of the region, without requiring much in the way of physical "investment". Pets definitely not recommended. Certainly, there are a few sections that will have acrophobes sucking in their breath, but be reassured: there are chains, ropes and guide rails on the narrowest and most precipitous sections of the trail, so you are never without something to grip onto for dear life. Additionally, parts of the trail are fortified by wooden switchback ramps, so you are not forced into awkward and precarious passing maneuvers to get around a gaggle of oncoming hikers. At its apex, expect wind, crowds and 360-degree views of our local natural wonder, the Columbia River Gorge, as well as at least three mountains (on a clear day): Hood, Adams and St. Helens. Your combined ascent, meditative time at the summit and eventual descent, assuming an equal allotment of time, won't take you more than an hour. I haven't been here in a few years, but it's one of those places where, if I want to share the splendor of the PNW to friends or guests looking for an outdoor adventure, this is one of my go-to locations. Beacon Rock is the McDonalds of gorge hikes: cheap, convenient, and accessible to everyone. Important note: *Does* require a valid Discovery Pass ($30) or day use fee ($5) to park here. Don't be an idiot (like me) and forget to bring your Discovery Pass, or try to "beat the clock" by ascending and descending before a park ranger comes by to check passes, or you'll end up with a $99 price tag on your adventure. read more

The views at the top are amazing! Easy to get to and a beautiful drive as well along the Columbia river. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Beacon Rock in the distance - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

This is a great day trip from Portland and surrounding areas. It is a beautiful scenic drive. It is $10 a day for the entrance fee per vehicle, which you pay through an app. There used to be a drop box but that is not gone. The parking can be limited so know the later in the morning you go, the busier it will get. If you want to avoid a lot of people I would recommend going during the week and avoiding the weekend. There is a restroom at the base of the walk for convenience. There are 2 signs for paths, the one for the Beacon Rock trail is around the right side of the parking lot. The other path takes you around the base of the rock but not up. I will be honest and say the first time we went up Beacon Rock, I only made it 1/2 way up. It was crowded and a hot day and I just wasn't prepared. The second time it was cooler (March) and we went during the week and we saw less than 20 people. It took about an hour round trip. Because it is nearly 900 feet up the rock, it can be quite gusty, and in some places there is no break or barrier from the wind. There are some natural stopping spots but there are also very narrow areas and it can be a tight squeeze when there is traffic is going both ways. The walk is created by switchbacks that include a metal guardrail for the majority of the path. I would rate the climb moderate as it is all uphill going to the top. The path is well maintained and it did not feel unsafe, although we stayed on the path and did not venture off. Enjoy!! read more

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We had the pleasure of visiting this beautiful area for a couple of weeks this summer and Beacon Rock State Park was the highlight of our trip. We hesitated making the climb since we are not as young and fit as we once were, but we were glad we did it. The park itself is huge and impressively pristine. We stopped at the first entrance to the park since we did not really know exactly where to go and were happy to learn that we visited on a state park free day so saved us the $10.00. This first entrance from the west had beautiful picnic grounds with fields of green grass, lovely trees, and inviting picnic tables. The restrooms were plentiful, clean, and modern. I considered taking a photo because these were the first park restrooms I wasn't nervous to use. I didn't of course, but just so you know they are very nice. We asked a ranger how to get to the Beacon Rock itself and other sites in the park and she gave us detailed information of different parking lots available and paths we could take. We opted to drive to the closest parking lot to save our energy to climb the rock. It really was not that difficult. We took our time, enjoyed the sites on the way up and again on the way down. The view is beautiful at every level and I would recommend giving it a try even if you think it seems difficult. Yes, there are a few slightly scary spots along the trail. It said it was meant to be ADA accessible, but I doubt that a wheelchair could navigate some of the bumpier rocky areas on the trail, unless it was designed for off road riding. There are a few short, wood bridges that we found slightly intimidating but overall the switchback path was not that difficult. There were many children on the trail, but personally I would not bring very young children since the rails are open on the bottom and not very sturdy in places. Loved the experience though and would do it again. We had also wanted to hike to the waterfalls in the park from the other picnic areas, but we were running out of time for the visit. Beautiful park, beautiful views and absolutely worth the time to plan a visit. read more

Spectacular view of the Columbia River Gorge on the way up and at the top. The hike up has a lot of switchbacks (I think it was 51 switchbacks) at a steady, but not too difficult of an incline. The Hubs and I do moderate-level hiking most weekends and we made it up to the top in under 20 minutes. There were plenty of people of various ability levels making the trek up and you can stop to rest if needed along the way. There aren't any benches but at least one section has some low rocks that you could sit and rest a bit. The very top was a bit crowded as folks lingered to enjoy the view but most moved on after a few minutes to allow others to move up to the railing and take it all in. There is a variety of other trails in the immediate area and we enjoyed the day hiking around and admiring the beauty the great Pacific Northwest has to offer! read more

As intimidating as Beacon Rock sounds (about 50 floors to climb before you hit the top, around 860 feet), it is quite doable. I cannot pride myself on being a runner anymore, yet I find this walking gently back and forth on hairpin turns of the path add to your enjoyment of the views. There are plenty of places to stop, which allow you to savor the time spent outside. The only thing I did wonder about is whether those afraid of heights would really enjoy this; but my companion on the first trip to Beacon Rock assured me he was able to take it all in and the rails were very helpful. The views absolutely make this place. On the other side of the river is Oregon (my heart and love) and you can enjoy its many splendored beauty from the Washington side. How fun! I keep wondering if that is Bridal Veil Falls I see. I am not an outdoors expert but I simply push my be-in-the-nature-moment button to soak it all in and add it to the memory banks. My older dog Gnof, 13-year old Irish terrier, made the trip before. I had to carry him up the final set of larger stairs. Be forewarned with larger dogs; those last few to the top are a bit big. I have been meaning to write about this place, and I reserve that privilege for when I visit somewhere at least twice. This happened the other day, and I made the coolest picture, see below. Definitely recommend going here to grab a peak at gorgeous Oregon from the other side. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - About half-way, looking down at a cool railing spot - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

Nice park. Beautiful views on a clear day. Some small waterfalls on a stream on the way to the top. Start in the morning before it gets to warm. read more

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From the bottom, I was a little nervous. I'm not going to lie. It looks like you're climbing straight up. I'm not a real big fan of heights so if you're like me, your insides are turning as approach the trailhead. You're telling yourself anything you can to accept the fact that life is going to be pretty uncomfortable for a little while, but they're all here to hike and you can't wuss out. We had tried to come on our previous visit and the gate (if you tried to go around it, you'd fall to your death) was closed. Darn. This time, open. Oh, and I forgot to mention.... the wind was howling 60 mph gusts when we got out of the car. Great. To be honest, the wind died down as we started our accent. It's switchbacks for 3/4 of a mile straight up the side of this magma plug from a volcano that erupted 57,000 years ago. The trail is wide and there are handrails for most of the trail. You'll cross bridges and see both sides of the rock as you make your way to the top 850 ft. up. From the top, we were greeted by those gusty gales and a 360 degree view of the Columbia River Gorge. It's a great quick hike that is unlike any other. It's impossible not to snap some amazing photos. In fact, you'll probably being shooting the whole way up and down. Parking is right next to the rock. There is a public bathroom to get rid of any prehike jitters. A Discovery Pass is required. You can buy a daily or annual pass from the automated station near where you park. Definitely a must if it's dry outside! read more

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Hiking up Beacon Rock taught me one thing about myself... I'm fat and out of shape. OK ok, maybe it didn't "teach" me about that, but it was a really good reminder. I couldn't drag my 400+ pound body up all 52 switch backs, but I did make it most of the way up. The view was amazing the whole way up. The view on the way down was intimidating, but still amazing. What a drop you would have if you slipped! Of course there are hand rails, but that's not what my over active mind thought about when looking down. This trail is fairly narrow. It was comfortable while in a single file line, but when had to pass someone going in the opposite direction it got a little hairy. There was lots of people with dogs, although I wouldn't call this a dog friendly trail. I certainly wont bring my dog Jade with me next time. It's too narrow, rocky and steep for me to feel comfortable with her there. Call me an over protective owner. I can't wait to go back. Next time I'm making it to the top. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

An underrated spot in the Columbia River Gorge. It's the remnant of a flood basalt that formed the present-day Gorge, and was carved by glaciation, and the Missoula Floods. Others argue that it's the magma chamber of an extinct volcano. Either way, it's spectacular. Lewis&Clark used Beacon Rock as a waymarking spot on their 1805 expedition, measuring the tides, realizing they were closer to the Pacific. From its summit, you can take in the breathtaking vistas of the Columbia River Gorge. The trail is about 900 feet, full of switchbacks and stunning heights. It's a short, vertigo-inducing hike... but worth it. The views are priceless. read more

Wonderful hike for those who don't mind the uphill hike. It's short and worth the views of the Columbia Gorge from the Washington side. I also saw it from the Oregon side which gave me a comparison view of the rock and of the gorge. Both views are a must. The short hike is mostly uphill but has a lot of handrails. The path is well maintained so tennis shoes are fine. There are no restrooms or water along the trail or at the top. A Discover Pass is needed to visit to this trail. I bought my pass at REI for $10 which is the standard fee per vehicle. I highly recommend this hike. It's a great work out and a great way to enjoy the beautiful views from every angle. read more

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Yesterday's visit turned out great. Little cloudy but no rain and not too busy. Would not bring small kids unless you have complete supervision. The rails along trail are not child proof. Some of the rocks towards top are slippery so wear appropriate shoes. Restrooms are located to the left of the entrance. Daily fare $10 or annual fee $30. You can also pay with credit card between restrooms and trail entrance. It is patroled often so make sure if you have your park pass put it out. I did see dogs, kids, blue jay and chipmunk along the trail. It does have alot of switchback but you can go at your own pace and enjoy the beautiful views. Lots of parking. Not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Moderate if you don't want to stop and enjoy but otherwise ok. Please be courteous while coming down of other hikers going uphill. Overall loved it read more

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Scenic hike up with a rock climbing area. Pretty busy so you'll want to go early on the weekends and it's exposed so avoid the heat of the day. Dogs are allowed. read more

Thanksgiving Day, 2016, my last full day in Portland on vacation, my younger sister, my brother, his wife and I came to hike in the morning before our afternoon Thanksgiving meal. I was unsure what to expect. A hike straight up? With handrails? Switchbacks? On Thanksgiving? Two miles? Meh..I do not know.... Well, I could not be happier to have done this. It was amazing. I am not the most in shape person physically, so it did take some time to get up. On the way up, there was one couple coming down, but we saw no one else. It does feel like it will take forever. Take a look around while hiking, because you will see interesting critters around. Some of the spots can be slick, so be careful. Once you get to the top, you have to climb some rocks to get to the very top. After a rain, or a foggy morning, even a mist, the rocks can be slick, so be careful going up and down. On the way back down, we did come across several groups of people, and one group with a dog. I hope they picked up the leftovers! There is a restroom at the bottom, enclosed with running water, which is nice. If you like hiking, come do it! This is a great trail! You will have to buy a parking pass! The full history of the creation of Beacon Rock should not be missed out on. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

This is a beautiful state park! I haven't personally hiked to the top but have made it part way. We like to stop there on road trips to eat lunch at the picnic tables! read more

I've done this hike twice and loved it each time. From the Oregon side, this looks like a high and difficult hike. Once you get to the trailhead, you'll find it's actually a short and fairly easy stroll up the monolith. Have your camera ready because there are beautiful sights along the entire short trip to the summit. It's been awhile but I believe it takes about 25-35 minutes for the average person to reach the summit. Well worth your time when you're visiting the Columbia River or Portland area! read more

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So when hiking with a six year old one must do a shorter hike. We did the Hamilton Trailhead to Hardy Falls, Pool of the Winds and Rodney Falls. Very steep ascent. Lots of bugs (remember the bug spray). The walk up is a bit dull but a huge payoff with the falls and the pool. There weren't a lot of people on the trail so we were able to linger in spots for snack breaks. Good exercise for the day. read more

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Great little hike! Steepish but worth the views! Plenty of parking near the trailhead! I recommend heading up the road to Hamilton mountain and the waterfalls if you're in the area, both worth it. Beautiful hike! read more

I am officially in love with the Beacon Rock hike. My boyfriend and I drove out from Portland for a little day hike. It was dry, but cloudy and around 60 degrees, so the perfect day for a nice jaunt to the gorge. We went on a Sunday, which could be a nightmare on a sunny weekend. (Crowded) We lucked out, there was very little traffic on the trails, and only had to stop to let people pass a couple of times. For the age of the trails and the park itself, it's amazing to see how high one can climb in just a short amount of time. The back and forth up the cliff on the bridges is amazing, and the view spectacular. Some of the most impressive photo opportunities I've had in some time, and I can't wait for a day when it's sunny and all in full bloom! Definitely will put this on the list of hikes to do multiple times throughout the year. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

I wanted to give this place a 5/5, because it really deserves it. But when you get to the top, the view is almost completely occluded because there are thick pine-weeds (pine trees) surrounding the viewing point. The climb up is pretty easy, its like a big ramp all the way to the top. Good views all the way up. Pretty interesting engineering went in to building the walkway. Costs $10 to park in the parking lot, and its a $100 dollar fine if you don't pay. The ranger station is literally across the street from the bottom of the 2 parking lots, and he checks cars often. SO PAY! read more

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Beacon rock is a sweet, fun, and tall chuck of rock sticking up on the WA side of the gorge. I think it's the second largest rock of its type in the world (Gibraltar is bigger). I went here with a friend and each of our daughters and we all got both up and down in a short enough time for the kids to not get too bored (teenagers are picky about this), and had a good time. It's under a mile in each direction, but has over 800 feet in elevation gain you will get a nice elevation in heart rate anyways. All in all a good short, and fun, hike. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - Use this park free some days in 2013! Makes a great park even better!!! - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington

It is beautiful, right down to the chipmucks at the top that Know ya gonna give the furry balls a cuteness a piece a sandwich or cracker. At the very top theres about 6 steep steps, but the walk up the trail is very easy. Its something about the views; spectacular to the point you don't realize How high you are, (until one or two points looking down at the zig-zagging trails up the side of the rock). read more

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The Rock is closed. The state park staff let me know that there were hurricane level winds that blew massive rocks onto the trail. Was disappointed and was told its indefinitely closed - hope I get to hike it soon. Instead the very friendly staff let me know that I can take a 2.52 mile hike to a few waterfalls. It was an incredibly beautiful hike with trees, views of the gorge and snow-tipped mountains and the summit of Mt. Hamilton. Parking is $10 day fee. Bring water. It can get steep. The drive from Vancouver is beautiful on the 14-E. There is an insane amount of mud on the trails right now - being appropriate shoes. read more

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BEACON ROCK STATE PARK is located on Route 14, otherwise known as Evergreen Highway. While the main attraction of Columbia River Gorge is likely to be Multnomah Falls, located across the river on Route 84, the Columbia River Gorge has a multitude of equal and lesser attractions, and these include Rooster Rock, Horsetail Falls, McCord Creek Falls, Wahclella Falls, and associated hiking trails, the tour inside Bonneville Dam, not to mention the occasional micro-brewery. Beacon Rock is 848 feet tall and is made of basalt. Henry Biddle purchased the rock in 1915 and for the next few years constructed a trail with 51 switchbacks, handrails and bridges. The trail is three-quarter miles long to the top, completed in April 1918. I took this switchback trail one drizzly day, and you can see the photo I took of my family in raincoats. I was feeling a little nervous about slipperiness due to the wet bridges, and so we only went about two thirds of the way up. Our week's trip through the northwest corner of Oregon included a hike through the ever-so-astonishing Silver Falls State Park, an hour's drive south of Portland. I am not sure if words do justice to the Columbia River Gorge, unless written by an exceptionally skilled nature-writer, such as Elna Bakker, author of An Island Called California. The following puts Beacon Rock State Park in perspective, as far as nearby locations are concerned. The best way to reach Beacon Rock from Portland, OR, is to drive east to the dam, cross the road that spans the dam, and then drive westwards on Route 14 by about 7.5 miles. Driving east from Portland, one eventually encounters Rooster Rock, then after five more miles, is Multnomah Falls, then about four miles further is Horsetail Falls, and then 3.5 miles further is the dam, where a bridge on top of the dam crosses over to the State of Washington, enabling you to access Route 14. But if you stay on Route 84, and drive 7.5 miles further to the east, you encounter Bridge of the Gods where, if you are lucky, you might encounter Reese Witherspoon and acquire an autograph. read more

Beacon Rock State Park - This shows one of the bridges and a couple of the switchbacks on Beacon Rock, on a drizzly day, circa 2007. - Parks Near Me - Stevenson, Washington