Greenleaf Overlook

On the Trail

This 8.8-mile, out-and-back hike is moderately difficult, with 800 feet of elevation gain and excellent Gorge views from the overlook.

Permits & Pets

The Pacific Crest Trail portion of the hike is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. Other trail sections pass through private and state lands. A Northwest Forest Pass is required and can be purchased here. Dogs must be on leash.

Trail Notes

• The Tamanous Trail (Trail 27) begins at the far end of the parking area. As the trail climbs, it offers views of Bonneville Lock and Dam.
• In 0.6 mile, turn left onto the Pacific Crest Trail (Trail 2000). In approximately 1 mile, come to a clear-cut where the trail turns sharply right. Some of this land is privately owned, so do not divert far from the trail. Near Gillette Lake, head up the right side of a creek valley and gain more elevation. The trail eventually empties onto a forest road. The lake is on the other side of the road, downhill and out of view. Look for where the trail picks back up as it heads downhill. You’ll see the lake on your left.
• Still on the PCT, cross the footbridge over Gillette Creek and pass through logged areas above Greenleaf Pond. Cross over Greenleaf Creek on a bridge. (You’ll hear a waterfall below, but this is on private land.) At this point, the trail enters the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Continue on the PCT for 0.75 mile to an escarpment and the Greenleaf Viewpoint.
• Please always stay on the trail and clean your boots before and after you hike. Hikers and their dogs are common vectors for spreading invasive seeds.
• Restrooms are at the trailhead.

Friends of the Columbia Gorge does not track trail closures. If you are planning a hike in the Gorge, please check other sources in advance for the latest updates, including the U.S Forest Service, Ready Set GOrge, and AllTrails. Recreational activities in the Gorge can involve risk of injury, death, property damage, and other dangers. Friends does not assume responsibility for any such outcome resulting from the use of the information on our hiking web pages. Your use of these web pages is strictly at your own risk.

Post-Hike Explorations

The Greenleaf Overlook offers views of the series of landslides that slid off Table Mountain and Greenleaf Peak over the centuries. After the hike, view the slide mass from river level. From SR 14, drive to Bridge of the Gods, located at one of the narrowest points on the Columbia River within the Gorge. Here, the entire river was once blocked by landslide debris. Over the centuries, the river chewed through it, leaving behind a vast expanse of whitewater—later called the Cascades of the Columbia. Cross over and head to Cascade Locks Marine Park. There, on Thunder Island, explore the water-level views of the landslide, including the above-water remains of the whitewater, and the lock canal that bypassed it beginning in the 1890s. Nearby, find brewpubs and other food options.

Other Hikes at or Near This Trailhead

• Fort Cascades Loop
• Gillette Lake
• Hamilton Mountain
• Strawberry Island Loop