Phlox Point is one of the best destinations for a hike close to the Portland area.
It’s near the western end of the Columbia River Gorge, the trailhead is easily accessible, the trail doesn’t see a lot of use, it provides a good workout (eight miles with over 2,000′ of elevation gain), and the views along the top of Hardy Ridge are open and far-ranging.
In early May the summit was covered with large patches of purple/lavender spreading phlox (where the summit got its name) and yellow parsley too. Very colorful.
Add this outing to your list of hiking favorites.
Spreading Phlox
Oregon Anemone
A hazy view up the Columbia River
Mt. Hood from Phlox Point
Candy Flower
Flowering Currant
Little waterfall near the trail
Fairy Bells
Lower trail (old logging road) passing through a stand of Red Alders
Columbia River as seen from the lower summit
Columbia Wind Flower
Looking down the lower portion of Hardy Ridge
Oooh that Oregon Anemone is beautiful. I also love the first photo the orange center with the purple petals is great.
Thanks much. Sunshine, no wind and beautiful wildflowers make photography easy.
John, good getting together with you last Monday. Randy Roach and I took this hike a couple of days later, thank you for the great tip.
Geoff