The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area offers a great selection of dog-friendly hiking opportunities. You'll find over 15 dedicated dog-friendly routes listed in this guide, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate adventures.

The Columbia River Gorge is beautiful year-round, but spring (for wildflowers) and fall (for foliage) offer particularly pleasant temperatures for hiking with dogs. Summer can be warm, especially on the eastern, drier side, so early mornings or late afternoons are best. Winter hikes are possible, but always check trail conditions for ice or snow, especially at higher elevations.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly trails perfect for families or those new to hiking. For a gentle walk around a scenic lake, consider the Round Lake Loop Trail, which offers a pleasant, mostly flat experience. Another accessible option is the Round Lakes Upper Dam – The Camas Potholes loop from Camas.

While many iconic waterfalls in the Gorge have restrictions on dogs, some trails offer views or access to smaller cascades. The region is renowned for its waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls and Wahkeena Falls. For a dog-friendly option that includes a waterfall, the Cascade Locks – Dry Creek Falls loop from Cascade Locks is a great choice, leading to the beautiful Dry Creek Falls.

Absolutely! Loop trails are fantastic for varied scenery and avoiding backtracking. The Cascade Locks – Dry Creek Falls loop from Cascade Locks is a moderate option that takes you through diverse landscapes. For an easier, shorter loop, the Round Lake Loop Trail is a popular choice.

The Columbia River Gorge offers incredibly diverse and dramatic views. You can expect breathtaking vistas of the Columbia River winding through towering cliffs, basalt formations, and deep canyons. Many trails also lead through lush, temperate rainforests on the western side or drier grasslands and oak woodlands to the east. Keep an eye out for stunning viewpoints like Crown Point, which offers panoramic river views.

The dog-friendly trails in the Columbia River Gorge are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the stunning natural beauty, the variety of landscapes, and the well-maintained paths that make for enjoyable outings with their canine companions.

Generally, dogs are welcome on most trails in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, but they must always be kept on a leash. Some specific areas, especially those with sensitive wildlife or high foot traffic (like certain waterfall areas), may have stricter rules or prohibit dogs. Always check signage at trailheads and respect local regulations. No specific permits are typically required for dogs themselves, but some trailheads or parks may require a parking pass.

Yes, most popular dog-friendly trailheads in the Columbia River Gorge have designated parking areas. However, during peak seasons or on weekends, these can fill up quickly. It's always advisable to arrive early, especially for well-known routes. Some parking lots may require a Northwest Forest Pass or a day-use fee, so be prepared.

While some areas of the Columbia River Gorge are accessible by public transport, especially along the Historic Columbia River Highway, direct access to many trailheads can be limited. Public transport options are more prevalent on the Oregon side. It's best to research specific routes and their proximity to bus stops or shuttle services if you plan to rely on public transport, as many services may not accommodate dogs.

To avoid crowds, especially on weekends, consider exploring trails on the eastern side of the Gorge, which tend to be drier and less frequented than the lush western waterfall areas. The Klickitat Park loop from Mayer State Park offers a more expansive and potentially quieter experience with river views. Early mornings or weekdays are also excellent times to find solitude on any trail.