This trail is in the Doetsch Ranch Day Use Area at Beacon Rock State Park. The name comes from nearby Beacon Rock's native name. "Che-Che-op-tin," translates to "the navel of the world." Native Americans weren't far off in their comparison, since the 848-foot basalt column once formed the core, or belly, of an ancient volcano.
It's a former cattle ranch at the foot of Beacon Rock includes restrooms, a large picnic area and the one-mile paved Che-che-op-tin Trail. Hike the trail heading west from the parking area to make a loop around the meadow (which is a former cattle pasture) towards the Columbia River.
Several mowed paths lead towards the river shoreline. In spring, the river may be too high to explore the shore, but later in the season there may be beach that's worth walking down to.
The Che-che-op-tin Trail reveals views of Beacon Rock, Hardy Ridge and Hamilton Mountain. Looping back to the parking area, the trail meets with a junction with the boat launch, which features restrooms, picnic tables, a couple of campsites, and an impressive view of Beacon Rock with the Columbia River at its base.
This makes a nice picnic area before heading back to your car.
Che-che-op-tin Trail
45.6192,
-122.0273
Map & Directions
-
Length
- 1.0 miles, roundtrip
-
Elevation Gain
- 10 feet
-
Highest Point
- 25 feet
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Discover Pass
Hike around a paved trail in a former cattle ranch at the base of the core of an ancient volcano.
Continue reading
Hiking Che-che-op-tin Trail
Che-che-op-tin Trail
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Before You Go
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Discover PassWTA Pro Tip: Save a copy of our directions before you leave! App-based driving directions aren't always accurate and data connections may be unreliable as you drive to the trailhead.
