Washougal-to-Stevenson Trail
A waterfall on private property that is one of the last key links for the Washougal-to-Stevenson trail
This proposed 45-mile trail would begin in washougal, WA and end in Stevenson, WA, encompassing a National Wildlife Refuge, riverfront trails, waterfalls, old-growth trees, Gorge vistas atop meadowed bluffs, an old wagon road and postal route from the late 1800's.
The trail would also serve local residents with "back door" recreation. This project is an outstanding opportunity to bridge the link between recreation and economic development and benefit Gorge residents and visitors for years to come. The trail could also provide backpacking opportunities for serious hikers, as well as wide, paved trails for families, bikers and wheelchair users.
Because it would begin and end in urban areas, the trail would also encourage visitors to spend their time and dollars in local communities.
The Washougal-to-Stevenson Trail project is a great example of how the National Scenic Area Act can live up to its potential: promoting the scenic and recreational resources of the Gorge and encouraging visitors to experience the urban areas as well as protected lands.
Here are a few segments of the trail already in use:
- 4.5 miles along a river dike east of Steamboat Landing in Washougal
- A small section that would overlap the Pacific Crest Trail and trails on the Hamilton Mountain in Beacon Rock State Park
- A two mile interpretive trail that begins at Skamania Lodge.
What You Can Do to Help
Contact the US Forest Service's National Scenic Area office and ask them to:
- Purchase the lands necessary to complete the public land link between Washougal and Stevenson.
Dan Harkenrider
Area Manager
Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
902 Wasco Ave., Ste. 200
Hood River, OR 97031
FAX: 541 386-1916
