Weldon Wagon Road - Hike Through History & Rolling Hills of Balsamroot


Monday, May 15, 2023

10:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.


Difficulty level: Intermediate: 3.75 miles | 1015-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

Enjoy a relatively mellow hike traversing hills covered in Balsamroot with beautiful vistas of the White Salmon River Valley, as we travel along the historic Weldon Wagon Road used decades ago to bring fruit to market. After the hike, we'll meet in White Salmon at Everybody's Brewing for lunch and socializing.

What you can expect on this guided outing: Wildflowers and views of the White Salmon River Valley. Medium-paced hike.

Hazards: Poison oak, and ticks. Portions of this trail are semi-rugged, and steep in sections. 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;
  • Tecnu (poison oak wash);
  • Insect repellent (bug spray);
  • Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen;
  • Hiking poles.

What to Wear:

  • Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots.
  • Long durable pants to protect from poison oak and ticks.
  • Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather. Be ready to shed layers in hot temperatures.

Schedule:

  • 10:00 a.m. - Meet at the trailhead
  • 1:00 p.m. - Outing concludes back at the trailhead

Fee: None

Restrooms: Nearest restroom located at Husum Boating Site (Vault Toilet).

Managed By: Washington Department of Natural Resources. The end of this trail leads to private property. Do not proceed beyond the end of the trail.

Directions: From the Hood River Bridge (tolls are required on the bridge) and SR 14, turn left (west) onto SR 14. In 1.6 miles, turn right onto Highway 141 Alt. In 2.2 miles, turn left onto Highway 141. Drive 4 miles to Husum. Just before the bridge over Rattlesnake Creek, turn right onto gravel Indian Creek Road. Drive 0.6 mile and bear left onto Indian Cemetery Road. Continue 0.3 mile to a parking pullout at the road’s crest.

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: Cheryl Hill