Hiking Catherine Creek to Coyote Wall


Friday, April 7, 2023

9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.


Hike Difficulty Level: Strenuous: 10 miles | 2,000-ft elev. gain

Before you register, please:

  • Please read our electronic Liability Waiver here. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read waiver during registration

Outing Description

Attend hike leader Sharon Ross’ outing where you will enjoy the early spring wildflowers and spectacular eastern Gorge vistas. Hike to the cliffs of Coyote Wall, across wildflower-filled grasslands and through oak woodlands to expansive views up and down the Columbia River. You will hike west from the Catherine Creek trailhead to the Coyote Wall viewpoint. After enjoying the eastern Gorge views, the group will return to the starting point at Catherine Creek. *Strenuous hikes will challenge most hikers. The hike will generally be longer and steeper, but may be deemed "Strenuous" because of the elevation gain. Generally 7 to 10 miles.

What you can expect to see on this outing: Wildflowers such as Shooting Stars, Columbine, Desert Parsley, and much more. Bring a wildflower field guide if you have one. Scan the skies for birds of prey soaring above you and views of Mt. Hood.

Hazards: Poison oak and ticks. Portions of this trail are on rocky scree, semi-rugged, and steep in sections; hiking poles are highly recommended. 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 at least plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours);
  • 10+ Essentials in backpack;
  • Tecnu (poison oak wash);
  • Insect repellent (bug spray);
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen;
  • Hiking poles (if you have them, they will be very helpful when navigating the rocky area);

What to Wear:

  • Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots;
  • Long-sleeved shirt and long durable pants to protect from poison oak;
  • G?aiters for tick protection;
  • Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather.

Schedule:

F?ee: No fee

Restrooms: A portable toilet located at the Catherine Creek trailhead.

Managed By: U.S. Forest Service

What to expect at a Friends 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.

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

Photo: Debbie Asakawa