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.
• Complete the CDC's Coronavirus Self-Checker 48 hours before the outing.

Outing Description

Join Friends Hike Leader/ Klickitat Trail Conservancy board member Ken Hansen on a 12.5-mile gentle downhill tour through the Swale Canyon portion of the Klickitat Trail, a "Rails to Trails" route. The group will discuss the efforts of Friends of the Columbia Gorge and the Klickitat Trail Conservancy at a lunch break.

Trained volunteers lead Friends outings

• Hike Leader: Ken Hansen
• Hike Shepherd: Mark Sanzone

What you can expect on this guided outing: The route is packed gravel with 6 short sections of original railroad cobble ballast. A front-end suspension mountain bike is recommended. There is NO cell coverage in the canyon, and the only access is the two trailheads. Be prepared for flats, etc.

This bike ride will provide impressive views of Klickitat canyon, traversing undeveloped steep oak-woodland canyon walls, managed by WA State Parks, as the group parallels Swale Creek.

Mountain bikes work for this gravel trail. Bike rentals will not be available. Participants should bring their own bike and gear.

Recommended bike ride items:

• Helmet required
• Water
• Snacks/energy food
• Patch kit and spare tube
• Sunscreen
• First aid kit
• Eye protection, sunglasses, or clear lenses
• Cycling multi-tool
• Gloves
• Lock
• Cell phone
• Cash or credit card

What to Wear:

• Please wear appropriate bike attire and bring your daypack with a lunch, snacks, water, and layers for protection against the elements. View the recommended 10+ Essentials List to help you pack.

Schedule:

• 11:00 a.m. - Meet at Harms Road trailhead near Lyle WA
• 3:00 p.m. - Outing concludes at Wahkiacus trailhead

Fee: No fee

Restrooms: Accessible Porta Potty located at Lyle Trailhead in town of Lyle, WA.

Managed By: Washington State Parks

Directions: Head east on Highway 14 to the town of Lyle. In the middle of Lyle, make a left turn onto the Centerville Highway and wind up and across a plateau for 14.9 miles. Turn left onto Harms Road and drive 0.5 miles on gravel to cross Swale Creek. Pull off to the left or right after crossing the bridge.

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? Please contact Melissa Gonzalez at hikes@gorgefriends.org or 971-634-1265.

Photo: Maegan Jossy