Cape Horn Trail

The Cape Horn Trail is located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge. While specific parking lots aren't detailed, trailheads are typically well-marked. It's always a good idea to arrive early, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly.

This trail is generally considered moderately challenging and is not recommended for novice hikers. The full loop involves significant climbing, particularly in the initial mile, which gains around 800 feet with steep switchbacks. Hikers should be prepared for varied terrain, including rocky and uneven sections.

The best time to hike the full loop is typically from mid-July through January. During spring and early summer (February 1st to July 15th), the lower section of the trail is closed to protect nesting peregrine falcons. However, you can still enjoy the upper portion as an out-and-back route during this period. Spring offers vibrant wildflowers, while fall brings stunning foliage.

The Cape Horn Trail is located within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. While there isn't a specific entrance fee for the trail itself, some parking areas within the National Scenic Area may require a Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee. Always check local regulations before you go.

While dogs are generally permitted on trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, they must be kept on a leash at all times. Please remember to pack out all pet waste to help preserve the natural environment.

The terrain is diverse, featuring forested paths, sections along country roads, and rocky talus slopes. You'll encounter both gradual and steep ascents and descents, with roots and uneven surfaces. The views are spectacular, offering panoramas of the Columbia River Gorge, including landmarks like Angel's Rest, Beacon Rock, and Multnomah Falls. You'll also see two waterfalls and distinctive geological formations like Cigar Rock.

Key viewpoints include Pioneer Point and the Nancy Russell Overlook, both offering sweeping vistas of the Columbia River Gorge. You'll also get an intimate look at Cape Horn Falls and see unique formations like Cigar Rock.

The dense forests are rich with big leaf maples, sword ferns, and vine maples. In spring and early summer, look for colorful wildflowers such as trillium, larkspur, and tiger lilies. Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons, especially during their nesting season (though the lower trail section is closed then), as well as pikas and Larch Mountain salamanders on rocky talus slopes.

The Cape Horn Trail is primarily known as a full loop. However, due to the seasonal closure of its lower section from February 1st to July 15th for peregrine falcon nesting, hikers can still enjoy the upper portion as an out-and-back route during that period.

Yes, as part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, hikers should adhere to Leave No Trace principles. This includes staying on marked trails, packing out all trash, respecting wildlife, and being mindful of seasonal closures, such as the lower trail section's closure for peregrine falcons from February 1st to July 15th.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Cape Horn Loop Trail and the Cape Horn Trail.