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

This is a car-free outing. To attend this outing, you will need to ride the Gorge Express.

All aboard the Gorge Express! Attend a weekday Gorge outing with Friends executive director/hike leader, Kevin Gorman, and Friends Gorge Towns to Trails Project Manager, Renée Tkach to Cascade Locks and hike the Dry Creek Falls loop via the Gorge Express. You will board the Gorge Express and depart from Gateway Transit Center to Cascade Locks. Before hitting the trail, you will make a pit stop at Kevin Gorman’s Cascade Locks home for coffee and a bathroom break. You will then walk up to the Pacific Crest Trail trailhead and hike the Dry Creek Falls loop. The day will end by departing from Cascade Locks on the Gorge Express and head back to Gateway.

On the day of the outing, Friends will give members the opportunity to purchase an annual GOrge Pass at a discounted $20 (50% off) before boarding. If you want to purchase a GOrge Pass through Friends, please bring cash or check to the outing.

Trained volunteers lead Friends outings

• Hike Leader: Kevin Gorman
• Hike Shepherd: Renée Tkach

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours);
• 10+ Essentials in backpack;
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen;
• Hiking poles;
• A photo/copy of your vaccination card if proof not sent via email.

What to Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots;
• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather.

Schedule:

• 9:00 a.m. - Meet at Gateway Transit Center
• 4:00 p.m. - Outing concludes back at Gateway Transit Center

Fee: Ticket to ride the Columbia Gorge Express. Purchase an annual GOrge Pass at a discounted $20 (50% off) from Friends on the day of the outing, please bring cash or check to the outing.

Restrooms: Nearest restroom located at Kevin Gorman's home in Cascade Locks

Managed By: U.S. Forest Service

Directions: Park at Gateway Transit Center

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.

Photo: Lenkerbrook Photography