Easy hikes and walks around Rowena

The Taylor Lake via Riverfront Trail offers a delightful, easygoing experience along the Columbia River in The Dalles. This 2.1-mile (3.4 km) hiking route features a mostly paved, gradually sloped path, making it highly accessible for all ages. You'll enjoy consistent river views as the trail meanders through trees and past the Taylor Spring wetlands, eventually leading to the tranquil Taylor Lake, which is a perfect spot to pause before heading back. With only 46 feet (14 metres) of elevation gain, this trail is a fantastic choice for a leisurely outing that takes around 52 minutes.

To plan your Taylor Lake via Riverfront Trail hiking adventure, head to the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center, which serves as the trailhead. This convenient starting point offers amenities like restrooms and water, ensuring a comfortable beginning and end to your walk. The trail's easy difficulty and well-maintained surface mean you can enjoy it year-round, though checking local conditions is always a good idea.

This family-friendly trail is notable for its high accessibility and educational elements, including interpretive signs along the way that highlight the natural environment. While you'll be immersed in riverside scenery and catch glimpses of the Columbia River Gorge mountains, the trail also offers a unique blend of nature with occasional views of nearby industrial buildings, providing a real-world context to the landscape.

Hike the easy 1.0-mile Catherine Creek Arch Loop in the Columbia River Gorge for wildflowers, river views, and the natural arch.

The Memaloose Overlook Trail offers a delightful, easy stroll through oak and pine forests that quickly opens up to stunning vistas of the Columbia Gorge. You'll find yourself gazing at Memaloose Island and Mount Hood, especially during spring when the hillsides burst with vibrant wildflowers like balsamroot and lupine. It's a short, high-reward experience perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the region.

Planning your visit is straightforward, but be aware that this 0.8-mile (1.3 km) route, with its 265 feet (81 metres) of elevation gain and 24-minute duration, becomes very popular during the wildflower season from late March to June. Arriving early is a smart move to secure parking, as the area can get crowded. Leashed dogs are welcome, and no special permits are typically required.

This trail is a fantastic introduction to the natural features of the Columbia Gorge, showcasing the unique blend of oak woodlands and open, flower-covered slopes. It's an easy-difficulty hike that provides a quick, accessible way to experience the region's famed spring blooms and expansive viewpoints, making it a great option for families or those seeking a gentle outdoor adventure.

The Sevenmile Hill Trail offers a quick, easy hike through open slopes covered in native bunchgrasses, with scattered oak trees and rocky sections. Despite its easy rating, you will gain 784 feet (239 metres) in elevation over just 0.8 miles (1.3 km), providing a good short workout. As you ascend, you are treated to expansive views of Mount Adams and the majestic Columbia River, making the effort worthwhile for the scenic rewards.

Planning your visit to the trail is straightforward, with an estimated duration of only 39 minutes to complete the route. If you visit in spring, typically from mid-April to early May, the hillsides come alive with vibrant wildflowers like Carey's balsamroot and Columbia Gorge lupine. Be aware that the area was affected by the 2025 Rowena Fire, and you might encounter poison oak and ticks, so it is wise to dress appropriately and check yourself after your hike. Good news for dog owners: this trail welcomes your canine companions.

This route is a notable option for experiencing the natural beauty of the Columbia River Gorge, offering a taste of its unique ecosystem. The trail's open terrain and diverse plant life provide a clear contrast to more forested paths in the region. It is an excellent choice if you are looking for a short, accessible hike with significant views and a chance to see seasonal wildflowers, providing a memorable outdoor experience without requiring a full day.