It was a late winter outing in the Columbia River Gorge. Temperatures in the high 30’s, the promise of another storm moving in, a pretty sunrise and a cool breeze.
The trail, a 8.7-mile lollipop loop, passes over the summit of 2,300-foot Burdoin Mountain. Hiking leader extraordinaire Debbie gets credit for bringing this fine hike to my attention several years ago.
But, back to the beginning. The Kreps Family, owners of a large cattle ranch north of Bingen, Washington are kind enough to open their property to hikers. The area is beautiful, south-facing, Oak Savannah with much steep terrain.
By the time I reached the summit, the storm was clearly coming in my direction. But, I was still treated to some nice views extending miles down the Columbia River Gorge.
The next several miles was a test in route finding due to snow and fallen limbs. At one stretch I found my way by following the tracks of cross-country skiers. I always enjoy being challenged.
This outing was another good example of why we hike in the outdoors in all seasons.
Looking down the Columbia River Gorge from the summit of Burdoin Mountain
Desert Parsley (not the prettiest of wild flowers)
Trail coming up the mountain
My muddy footprints on the hard-to-find trail
Small waterfall along the lower trail
Prairie Star
Trail approaching the summit with the Columbia River far below
Wish I had the oomph to get up top to those wild flowers
It’s one of the nicest hikes in the Gorge. In about three to four weeks the hillsides will be covered with wildflowers.
It is easy to see you really do like to be challenged, John. Another gorgeous hike you took us on, thanks so much. Really like that last photo a lot…highlighting this stunning place in the world.
Thanks. The top of Burdoin Mountain has some of the nicest views in the Gorge.