The best walks and hikes around Rowena

The peak wildflower season is typically during the spring and early summer. During this time, the grasslands and plateaus are covered in over 300 species, including vibrant arrowleaf balsamroot and lupine. Many trails in the Tom McCall Nature Preserve are famous for their floral displays.

Dogs are generally not permitted on trails within the Tom McCall Nature Preserve, which includes the popular Rowena Plateau and Tom McCall Point trails. This is to protect the sensitive plant life and wildlife. Always check the specific regulations for each trail before you go, as rules can vary in the wider Columbia River Gorge area.

Yes, the Rowena area offers several options for families. The Rowena Plateau Trail is a well-regarded 2-mile loop that is relatively flat and provides outstanding views of the Columbia River Gorge. It's a great choice for a less strenuous walk with children.

The Rowena Crest Viewpoint is a highly popular spot offering panoramic views of the Columbia River and the iconic winding highway loops below. Many hiking trails, including the Tom McCall Point and Rowena Plateau trails, start from this viewpoint and offer their own stunning vistas as you walk.

The hiking terrain is characterized by open grasslands, clifftop plateaus with dramatic drop-offs, and groves of scrub oak. Trails are typically well-defined dirt paths that can be rocky in sections. The landscape was carved by ancient floods, leaving behind unique basalt formations and depressions known as 'kolk ponds'.

Yes, there are several loop trails. For a shorter, scenic option, the Catherine Creek Loop Trail is a 2.1-mile (3.4 km) walk that is particularly beautiful during wildflower season. It offers a different perspective of the Gorge's eastern landscapes.

A majority of the most popular hikes begin at the Rowena Crest Viewpoint parking area, located on the Historic Columbia River Highway. This serves as the primary trailhead for both the Rowena Plateau and Tom McCall Point trails. It's a large lot but can fill up quickly, especially on weekends during peak season.

While the immediate Rowena area is known more for its open plateaus and expansive views, the broader Columbia River Gorge is famous for its waterfalls. Hikes closer to the western end of the Gorge, such as those near Cascade Locks or Multnomah Falls, are where you will find the highest concentration of waterfall trails.

The trails around Rowena are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Hikers often praise the spectacular panoramic views of the Columbia River and the stunning wildflower displays in the spring. The well-maintained paths and unique geological features are also frequently mentioned.

There are over 20 designated hiking trails around Rowena. These range from easy, flat loops on the plateaus to more challenging ascents with significant elevation gain, offering options for various fitness levels.

For a longer, mostly flat walk, consider the Riverfont Trail in the nearby city of The Dalles. This path follows the edge of the Columbia River and offers a different perspective of the region without the strenuous climbs found on the plateau hikes.