Size: 25 acres
Location: Klickitat County, WA
Acquired: 2017
This oak-covered land consists of 25 acres high atop Friends’ 540-acre Cherry Orchard property (originally purchased by Friends’ founder Nancy Russell) and near state land managed for the protection of the western gray squirrel. The Oregon white oaks that cover Lyle Peak are a keystone species that provides feeding, resting, and breeding habitat for many other species of wildlife. One day this land could also offer a trail with panoramic views from one of the highest points in the Gorge.
Latest News
Keep updated on Friends' work, news stories, and the work happening in the Columbia Gorge.
Fire personnel work to contain the Rowena Fire in June 2025. Photo courtesy of Wasco County.
United Way of the Columbia Gorge, Friends of the Columbia Gorge Partner to Raise Funds for Rowena and Burdoin Fire Recovery
September 16, 2025
Friends of the Columbia Gorge has partnered with United Way of the Columbia Gorge on a fundraising effort supporting families impacted by the devastating Rowena and Burdoin Fires. With 100% of donations going directly to relief, this partnership will provide long-term recovery support to affected residents in Oregon and Washington.
Funding from LWCF helped ensure the protection of Catherine Creek. Photo by Robby Miller.
Trump’s Budget Aims to Pillage Conservation Funds
June 5, 2025
The Trump administration’s FY26 budget proposes redirecting roughly $387 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s (LWCF) federal land acquisition budget to fund “deferred maintenance”—that is, repairs to trails, […]
Friends Announces Winners of 2025 Photo Contest
May 25, 2025
Friends of the Columbia Gorge is proud to announce the winners of our 2025 photo contest, "Lenscape: Through Nature's Eyes," including grand prize winner Paloma Ayala.
