Eagle Creek to Wahtum Lake

Central Gorge, Oregon

Eagle Creek (photographer: Michael J Horodyski)

Trail Features

Wildflowers
Waterfall

Trail Description Driving Directions

Trail Alert, Jul 12, 2018: Trail closed due to the 2017 Eagle Creek fire. Currently there is no timeline for reopening.

Begin this hike at Eagle Creek Trailhead and climb steeply up to Wahtum Lake over two days. The first eight miles follows scenic Eagle Creek, coming to a great camping spot. On the second day, the steep trail climbs up to Wahtum Lake, elevation gain 2300'. Camp at Wahtum Lake, then return the way you came.

This trail enters the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness at approximately 5 miles south of the trailhead. Wilderness restrictions apply.

- Hike descriptions were collaboratively written with the generous support of oregonhikers.org. + Read More

Trail Details

Type: Out and back
Distance: 26.5 miles round trip
Elevation Gain: 5310 feet
Difficulty: Expert
Family Friendly: No
Restrooms: Yes
Trailhead Pass: NW Forest Pass
Gorge Trailhead Passes Guide

Columbia Gorge Car-Free

View itineraries for exploring the Gorge by foot, bike, bus or train.

Post-Fire Gorge Hiking Opportunities

These trails and recreation areas in and around the Gorge are open for exploring.

Ready, Set, GOrge!

When planning your visit to the Gorge, take Ready, Set, GOrge! to heart.

Friends Business Members in the Gorge

Support a local business for a post-hike outing.

Driving Directions

Eagle Creek Trailhead: raveling eastbound on I-84, take Exit #41. At the bottom of the ramp turn right. Go about 1/2 mile to the end of the road. You will go past a footbridge (that takes hikers up to Wauna Viewpoint) as the road narrows to one lane. Continue a short ways to a large parking lot; park only in designated spaces. NW Forest Pass required. Coming from the east, there is no westbound exit at Exit #41/Eagle Creek. You must continue on I-84 and get off at Exit #40/Bonneville Dam, get back on the interstate and head east for one mile to Exit #41. At the bottom of the ramp turn right. Go about 1/2 mile to the end of the road. You will go past a footbridge (that takes hikers up to Wauna Viewpoint) as the road narrows to one lane. Continue a short ways to a large parking lot; park only in designated spaces. NW Forest Pass required. + Read More