Eagle Creek — Wednesday, Apr. 19, 2017

Southwest Washington > Columbia River Gorge - OR

Got to the trailhead at 1:20 pm and began hiking. Though rain was forecast, there were only light sprinkles and we didn't need rain gear. Metlako Falls viewpoint is closed because of a landslide and signs threaten fines for trespassers. We took the Lower Punchbowl detour (right fork), which was beautiful, but in hindsight it wasn't worth the energy if you intend to keep hiking. Lower Punchbowl seems to be the turnaround point for most people so it was the most crowded viewing area. Also, the 1/4-mile climb down to the river is steep and easily the hardest portion of the hike when coming back up to the Eagle Creek Trail. There were lots of wildflowers and majestic views along the way - leave lots of time for pictures. The dirt trail winds along the edge of the mountains with a wire handrail along the more dangerous portions. We brought our dog and a leash and harness were ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL. My dog is good about staying right next to me on hikes so I usually let her off-leash if there aren't a lot of people, but she almost walked right off the edge of the trail twice. If she wasn't leashed, she'd be dead. There was one somewhat challenging stream crossing and many downed trees once you enter the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness. One of the trees required we remove our packs to go under, but the rest were only mildly annoying. We camped at 7 1/2-mile camp, which isn't amazing, but has water access and is the last camp for miles. No facilities or bear boxes are offered at any of the sites along way, so make sure you prepare adequately. We arrived at camp at about 3:45 pm and were not able to start a fire because the wood was too wet. There was only one other camper we saw and though the sites are close together, it felt like we were completely alone. We packed up and headed back around 9 am and again, it was an amazing and scenic hike. I highly recommend doing this hike at least to Tunnel Falls. I also suggest doing it before peak season or when the weather isn't perfect as this is a very popular destination for both Portland and Seattle.

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