Before you register, please:

• Read our updated digital Liability Waiver here. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read waiver during registration.
• Read our COVID-19 Event FAQ here. Friends now requires participants to be vaccinated in order to attend outings. After you register, you will be asked to present proof of vaccination.

Outing Description

Join hike leader Paul Freeman for a wildflower-filled hike as you begin your hike at the Crawford Oaks trailhead at Columbia Hills State Park and hike uphill to cross 8-Mile Creek. You will then hike the loop in a counter-clockwise direction up to the Dalles Mountain Ranch; and head back to the trailhead. This outing will occur close to the peak of the wildflower bloom, where you will walk through fields of colorful balsamroot and lupine, while also stopping along the way to identify countless other wildflower species. Listen closely, and you will hear the beautiful song of western meadowlarks nesting in the grasses and wildflowers. This hike will do wonders to your senses.

Trained volunteers lead Friends outings

• Hike Leader: Paul Freeman
• Hike Shepherd: Lisa Platt

What you can expect to see on this guided outing: Wildflowers such as Balsamroot, Lupine, Big-head clover, Butterfly Parsley, and much more. Bring a wildflower field guide if you have one.

Hazards: Poison oak, rattlesnakes, and ticks. High winds could be expected, bring ear protection. A lot of sun exposure, bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Wear long pants as poison oak can be found along the trail. View the recommended 10+ Essentials List to help you pack.

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours)
• 10+ Essentials in backpack
• Wildflower Field Guide
• Tecnu (poison oak wash)
• Insect repellent (bug spray)
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Hiking poles (if needed)
• A photo/copy of your vaccination card if proof not sent via email

What to Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots.
• Long durable pants to protect from poison oak
• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather

Schedule:

• 9:30 a.m. - Meet at the trailhead
• 12:00 p.m. - Lunch break
• 3:30 p.m. - Outing concludes back at the trailhead

Fee: Discover Pass is required for vehicle access

Restrooms: One-seat outhouse at the trailhead.

Managed By: Washington State Parks

Directions: From the intersection of U.S. 197 and SR 14, drive 3.6 miles east on SR 14 to the Crawford Oaks Trailhead and parking area, on the left (north) side of the road.

What to expect at a Friends guided outing: Expect a supportive and welcoming space where experienced hike leaders and shepherds guide you throughout Gorge outdoor spaces. Friends outings provide the opportunity to explore the Columbia Gorge, build community, and learn how Friends is the only conservation organization entirely dedicated to protecting, preserving, and stewarding the Gorge.

A confirmation email with outing details will be sent out 3-5 days before the event.

Questions about this guided outing, contact Melissa Gonzalez at hikes@gorgefriends.org or 971-634-1265.

Questions about membership, contact Hannah Anderson-Dana at hannah@gorgefriends.org

Photo: Don Jacobson