Embark upon the well-marked Horsetail Falls trail, to the left of the roadside Horsetail Falls viewing area. The initial 0.5 miles of steep switchbacks is the most challenging portion of the trail, but the reward is swift: you earn a beautiful view of Ponytail Falls and then pass behind the sweeping cascade, crossing a broad basalt shelf.
Beautiful Bridal Veil Falls is the cornerstone of the views offered in Bridal Veil State Park. This trail is short, family friendly and relaxing, yet it descends into a gulley where you will view 120-foot Bridal Veil Falls. Bring your camera. Benches along the route provide plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.
Go beyond a typical drive-up tourist stop along the Columbia Gorge Scenic Highway on a short and spectacular loop. After viewing the majestic bottom tier of Latourell Falls, you will ascend a forested hillside to Upper Falls, a stunning double-decker cascade.
Your journey will begin a bit inauspiciously, as you cross the on-ramp for Bridge of the Gods and briefly parallel roaring I-84. This only lasts about 0.2 miles, though. After crossing under an overpass, turn right on a gravel road, following the signs to the Pacific Crest Trail, which will be on the left after about 100 yards.
Set off towards the water along the paved trail. You will pass a small dog park to your left as you approach a viewing platform that projects over Puget Sound. You will enjoy vistas of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains as you traverse the length of this elevated walkway.
Colorful leaves, varied waterfowl and golden sunlight add zest to the pleasant trails of Lakewood’s Fort Steilacoom Park. On this gently rolling loop, you will visit the Hill Ward monument, meander through meadows and forest and stroll the shores of Waughop Lake. Clear, crisp days also afford stunning views of Mount Rainier.
Soon you will glimpse your final destination, as the bare, rocky promontory of Angel’s Rest looms out of the trees. After this view, you will continue to switchback uphill. Note how the vegetation and geologic features change as you climb, from thick forest to oaks and basalt formations.
Keep an eye out for wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles as you follow the broad, sandy beach rimmed with wind-lashed trees.
In about 0.5 miles you will cross Ellen Creek. This wide stream is currently deep and fast-moving due to heavy rain, but there is a large, sturdy log that serves as an excellent bridge.
Hikers also are advised that the spit is very narrow and would be dangerous to hike during severe storms. High tide does not make the spit impassable, but be aware that you will be forced towards the center, where you will be clambering over logs. This is a fun test of agility, but it will be significantly more time-consuming than walking along the beach at low tide. Check the tide schedule and weather conditions before you set off to avoid any surprises that might leave you soaked or swimming back.
grab your ice ax and snowshoes for a trek up Guye Peak. This scenic portion of the Pacific Crest Trail is blanketed in rich powder and adorned with impressive ice formations, offering snowshoers a veritable winter wonderland—complete with stunning 360-degree views at the summit.
Follow Us!