Dog Mountain

Dogs are allowed on leashes on the hike up Dog Mountain. Photo by trip report poster, JenniferS.

This trail is not a secret. But it sure is beautiful, especially in the spring when an electric display of balsamroot blooms. It's worth a hike anytime of the year, however, with its fabulous views of the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. St. Helens and Mt. Hood from the old lookout at the top.

You'll see plenty of people along the way, as well as dogs. It's a great conditioning hike for both the two-legged and four-legged sort. Bring plenty of water along for you and your dog - it's pretty dry out there! And watch out for rattlesnakes and poison oak - all the more reason to heed the requirement to keep Fido on a leash.

There are two looping possibilities as you climb Dog Mountain, which helps a bit with crowd control. It doesn't matter terribly which way you go. The views - flowers and your feet as you ascend and sweeping vistas of the Gorge as you descend - are pretty much the same, and all trails lead to the top. But staying right at both junctions provides a gentler approach, so that generally is the recommended way to go.

The famous flower display usually begins in April and peaks in mid-May, so plan your trip accordingly. And be sure to bring a windbreaker, because it can be quite breezy up there.

Guidebooks: Best Hikes with Dogs: Western Washington and Day Hiking South Cascades, by Dan A. Nelson (Mountaineers Books). Day Hike!: Columbia Gorge, by Seabury Blair, Jr. (Sasquatch Books).

Check out WTA's Hiking Guide and Trip Reports for more information.

From Vancouver, take Hwy 14 east to milepost 53. Just beyond is the parking area for the trailhead on the left (north) side of the highway. Arrive early to avoid the massive spring crowds. Northwest Forest Pass required.