Up the Creek

On Saturday, July 17, 2009, we hiked the eastern half of the Catherine Creek loop. The trail is located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, about eight miles east of Hood River. It was a very hot day and since sunset currently is about 9pm, we waited until 6pm to begin our hike. However, it was still 93°, with a light wind off the Columbia.

The paved eastern trail is a little under ¾ of a mile, with a 70 foot elevation loss. Here’s a description of the trail from the Portland Hikers.org:

The trail weaves about past several informational signs about the flowers and history of the area. In about 1/4 mile, you'll come to a viewpoint overlooking Catherine Creek Falls. Catherine Creek runs all year, but there's definitely more water in the spring. From here the trail drops down somewhat steeply and crosses a couple of wooden bridges. You'll pass the lower end of the shortcut trail, heading uphill to the right. At the base of the hill is a welcome bit of shade under a few oak trees.

The trail now starts very gradually up. You'll work your way under a small bluff. Off to he left, you'll notice a fault in the underlying basalt. Cracks like this form between different lava flows to create the interesting rock formations in the area. A similar fault has created the nearby Catherine Creek Arch. As the trail switches back toward the east, you'll have a good chance to admire the flowers in the open area. You'll pass the upper junction of the shortcut trail and soon, you'll be back to the first trail junction.

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