The excitement begins where the pavement ends in Troutdale!
So much can be said about touring The Gorge by automobile or shuttle service. Yet the fantastic hidden treasures of the region can best be found off I-84. Whether by foot, horse, bike or ATV, visitors can learn so much about Troutdale and The Gorge in a quick morning jaunt to a multi-day excursion. For example, trails begin at Glenn Otto Park in Troutdale and extend through Beaver Creek Canyon, giving hikers a glimpse at the historic Harlow House and the former trout ponds from which Troutdale gets its name. The Sandy River Delta offers plenty of hiking options, including the 1.2-mile Confluence Bird Blind, where visitors can experience a bit of the Lewis & Clark Historic Trail. Those seeking more remote and lengthy options can begin with the Larch Mountain Trail.
Cyclists will enjoy many popular options throughout The Gorge. Paved cyclists frequent the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail, while mountain bikers typically head inland for a plethora of trails. The Mitchell Point Tunnel, currently under construction, will allow bicyclists and hikers the ability to ultimately travel between Troutdale and The Dalles.
Yet hiking and cycling only begin to touch on the trail activities in the area. Other opportunities for backpacking, horseback riding, birding, and more include:
