Cape Horn — Friday, Jul. 3, 2020

We were able to park in the park & ride area which is across the street from the trail head, but it was pretty full and some people were parking along the street. The first mile or so of the upper trail was the steepest part, but it flattens out once you reach the first viewpoint. I would probably call the hike moderate-easy. The first few viewpoints are located on a cliff and there is a steep drop-off without a rail. I am afraid of heights but stayed far away from the edge and could still see the view well (though it did make me a little queasy). There are incredible panoramic views of the Gorge, as well as a variety of scenery (forest, wheat fields, wild flowers)! After reaching the viewpoint that is round with seating, almost amphitheater-like, the trail starts to go down toward the waterfall and the lower trail of the loop. The lower trail was still closed for peregrine falcon nesting (through 7/15 according to signs) so we went to the upper view of the waterfall. In my opinion, it wasn't worth it. You have to lean over the railing at the viewpoint to barely have a view of the waterfall, and have to climb back up ~1,000 feet because the loop is closed. Overall, the trail and scenery were beautiful for great views of the Gorge!