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.

Outing Description

Bring your canine friend, or just yourself, and join hike leader Don McCoy as he guides you on the Hardy Bridge Trail. The hike will start at the Equestrian Trailhead and follow the Equestrian Trail up to the Upper Hardy Trail. At the Bridge Trail intersection, the group will turn left and follow the trail across the bridge going over Hardy Creek and follow it over to the East Hardy Trail. You will then follow the East Hardy Trail down to the Equestrian Trail, which leads up back to the Equestrian Trailhead. Well-trained, leashed dogs are welcome, but you don’t need a dog to attend. *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 on this guided outing: This hike is all in the forest. However, its a wonderful time close to nature and allows our best friends to enjoy it too. Expect to see some wildflowers starting to bloom. There is no cell phone service at the Equestrian Trailhead.

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water for you and your dog (1 liter for every two hours);
• Doggy waste bags, and be prepared to carry the waste off the trail;
• 10+ Essentials in backpack;
• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen;

What to Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots.
• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather. Be ready to shed layers in hot temperatures.

Schedule:

• 9:00 a.m. - Meet at the Beacon Rock State Park Equestrian Trailhead
• 3:00 p.m. - Outing concludes back at the trailhead

Fee: Discover Pass is required for vehicle access to state parks for day use. For more information about the Discover Pass and exemptions, please visit the Discover Pass web page.

• Automated pay station: This park is equipped with an automated pay station at Beacon Rock State Park for visitors to purchase a one-day or annual Discover Pass and boat launch permit. Credit Card reader is near the bathroom on Route 14.

Restrooms: Nearest restroom is a pit toilet at the Equestrian Trailhead. There is a flush toilet at Beacon Rock State Park. There is a pit toilet on this trail.

Managed By: Washington State Parks

Directions: From SR 14 near milepost 35, come to Beacon Rock State Park. Turn north on Kueffler Road. Drive 1.1 miles and turn right; drive 0.4 mile to the large equestrian trailhead, the start of this hike.

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: Friends Photo Archive