Hiked this trail on a Monday in late-October, so the parking lot and trail were not busy. The parking lot is right off Highway 14 and has about 75 stalls. The WTA description of the hike  seemed very accurate - an ass-kicker for most of it with a few flat spots. Today was very cold so there was frost on the trail and a little bit of snow at the top. There were a few muddy parts toward the top. Poles would be helpful as it was pretty slick. The views are stunning. Downhill is hard on the knees (if you’re old like me). Poles are helpful here too. This hike is definitely a must if you’re in the area. 

Trail wasn't too busy which was surprising for a later-morning Saturday hike, but maybe the fog contributed to that. Most people were not wearing masks, but mostly respected our distance. Wish we had clear views but caught some peak views! 

Beautiful weather. Great time to hit this trail before the craziness of spring flowers. Able to park in the lot just fine. Took the "more difficult" trail up and the "difficult" down. Trail was muddy but snow free. Very windy as per usual Gorge! 

Trail in good condition.  No snow at top (as of late afternoon 1/4).  Gale force winds at top so would recommend layers and wind breaker.  

Enjoyed a rain-free fall hike in the Columbia River Gorge.  Forested trail emerges to breathtaking views.  As you approach the summit, the trail crosses the open mountainside.  We were socked in with cloud cover and ducked under a tree for lunch, only to emerge 15 minutes later to clear skies and miles of view.  

As noted by others, it's a significant elevation gain, but not too difficult if you are in moderately good shape.  Just take it at your own pace;  reaching the top is worth it!  For those of us over 50, the downhill portion is just a different sort of challenge;  I felt the stress in my knees for sure.  :)

This time of year, the parking lot was probably 1/3 full. We had a NW Forest Pass and paid the $5 day use permit fee.  There are pit toilets just up the trail from the parking lot.    We saw other hikers but I wouldn't say it was crowded, unlike the spring season.  We were alone at the top when we got there.

We took the East leg of Dog Mountain trail going up, and came down the West leg of the trail.  Will do this again and explore the Augspurger route back down.  Spring goals!