Tag: placebasedlearning

How and Where to Hike in Winter around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge

Published on by littlefeethikingLeave a comment

We all spend a lot of time indoors during our wet Pacific Northwest winters. However, with the right gear and knowledge, you can make winter one of your favorite hiking seasons. Trails are less crowded, migratory birds are in the area, and waterfalls are full. That said, weather can be unpredictable, trails can be muddier, and there may be road hazards.

little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the winter. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the winter, as well as ideas on how to hike safely with kids. Remember that you don’t have to travel far from home or spend a ton of time hiking to make it worthwhile. Even a short hike during the winter can be restorative and meaningful!

For winter hiking with kids, it can be good to stay lower in elevation, closer to cell service, and away from fire-damaged areas. It’s also a great idea to:

  • Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail. Consult WTA’s snow depth map when looking for snow conditions on a trail. Stay out of the forest when high winds are forecasted (rain plus wind can equal trees falling on roads and/or trails).
  • Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cold temperatures and rain can easily put you (and especially kids) in hypothermia territory.
  • Learn more about winter hiking from the Washington Trails Association (WTA).
  • Plan for winter driving.
  • Bring a change of clothes, extra socks and gloves, lots of snacks, something warm to drink, and something warm/dry to sit on.
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!

Now that you’ve learned a bit on how to hike in the winter, how do you know where to hike with your family? Thankfully, I’ve compiled my favorite winter hikes by book. Check them out below!

little feet hiking

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge

Winter may feel a bit sleepy, but the jogging stroller friendly trail at Steigerwald takes you through an area busy with lots of wildlife. On any given winter day, you could encounter deer, birds of prey, ducks, geese, insects, and more. There are also Mt. Hood and Columbia River views. You can hike as little as 2 miles round trip to get a great nature experience, but there are also miles to add on once you connect to the Columbia River Dike Trail. This trail is a family favorite – just be prepared for the possibility of lots of wind while hiking here.

Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – Oaks to Wetlands Trail

Winter is the best time to visit the refuge because of all the migratory birds! You don’t have to walk very far on this easy 2 mile out-and-back trail to see and hear the noisy and beautiful swans that flew south (to our area) for the winter. Along the trail, you may even come across deer, birds of prey, ducks, and more. Bring a pair of binoculars and be sure to stop to read any interpretive signs. Consider a drive on the nearby Auto Tour Route to see even closer-up views of winter waterfowl and birds of prey. There is a fee to park.

Hike 16 in little feet hiking: Bells Mountain Trail from Cold Creek Day Use Area

This hike in the Yacolt Burn State Forest is only 27 miles from downtown Vancouver, yet it feels like it is deep in the wilderness. I love this trail in the winter because there is such a deep forest feel that is even more special in the rain. There is so much green from the trees that you totally forget that the skies are gray, and the sound of the rushing creek is quite soothing. The trailhead is down a gravel road, and there is no cell service, so you’ll need to plan to be a little off the grid. A WA Discover Pass is required to park.

little feet hiking two

Hike 8 in little feet hiking two: La Center Bottoms

La Center Bottoms is an excellent place for birdwatching, especially for migratory swans and pintail ducks. The trail can be a little muddy, especially when the gravel/dirt trail turns to dirt after the first half mile. You can continue on a dirt trail for another half mile for a 2 mile total round-trip hike. Favorite parts of this trail include multiple bird blinds and fun statues near the trailhead.

Hike 10 in little feet hiking two: Tarbell Trail from Rock Creek Campground

Our family loves this trail as it is rarely busy, there are always cool things to see, and we sometimes see horses! The trail starts out by crossing the creek on a long bridge, hiking through pretty forest (with some impressive nurse logs), and then taking you through a young forest that feels like a wild holiday tree farm. It has been neat to watch the trees grow on this trail over the last 10 years. There are also a lot of large cut stumps that allow for learning about dendrochronology (the study of tree rings). A WA Discover Pass is required to park.

Hike 19 in little feet hiking two: Lacamas Lower Falls

In the winter, there is a lot of water flowing through Lacamas Park and over Lower Falls, which makes it really cool to hike to the falls this time of year. Between the pretty forest, the downed logs that are perfect for climbing, the wide stroller-friendly trail, and the bridge over the rushing creek, it’s a fantastic place to hike with kids. My favorite part of the trail, though, is the rocks. Did you know they are millions of years old? Learn more about that in my book.

little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Little Zigzag Falls

The short hike to Little Zigzag Falls is great any time of the year, but my family really enjoys it when there is just a touch of snow on the ground. The trailhead sits just above 3,000 feet in elevation, so the trail has snow much of the winter. I’m not a huge fan of driving in snow or ice, but the access to this particular trailhead is less challenging than other higher-elevation Mt. Hood hikes. Be sure to read up on winter driving, and follow chain rules. As always, come prepared with your essentials and anything else you might need for a cold, icy/snowy adventure. Thankfully, there is a traffic camera on Highway 26 right by the trailhead. Find the traffic camera for Highway 26 at USFS Rd 35 here.

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails

I love hiking at Wildwood Recreation Area on a rainy day! This awesome BLM recreation area has several miles of flat, kid-friendly trails (most of which are paved or boardwalk) and is located on the west slope of Mt. Hood. This spot is at about 1,200 feet, which means that it should stay snow-free most of the winter. When visiting, be sure to check out the relief map, the river beach, the naturalist exhibits on the boardwalk, and the awesome nurse logs along the paths. FYI, some of the boardwalks can be slippery when wet! There is a fee to park.

Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Old Salmon River Trail

If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a fairy forest, the Old Salmon River Trail in Welches is the place to visit. You can hike up to 3.8 miles out-and-back along the river through a mossy old-growth forest. There are multiple parking areas and every section of this trail is beautiful. Plan on playing by the riverbank and climbing on and hugging massive trees. Keep an eye on kids around drop-offs and the swift river. This hike is accessible most of the year, as long as snow levels aren’t too low.

little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Hike 2 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Columbia River Dike Trail

The Columbia River Dike Trail is a popular trail, but you will find fewer crowds in the winter. Winter is a fantastic time to hike, especially on cold, sunny days. Kids always seem to enjoy checking out the interpretive signs, hanging out in the dugout canoe replicas, climbing on low-hanging trees, and birdwatching. You might even see horses along the trail. Look for a view of Mt. Hood to the east on sunny days, and be prepared for windier conditions along the river.

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls

We love this hike because you can hike right up to two waterfalls on a somewhat challenging 2.4 mile loop hike. This hike is a Gorge treasure and is appropriate for kids who can navigate steep trails that are slippery when wet and are narrow with drop-offs. There are great Gorge views as well as fun trees to climb on and walk through. Be prepared for the cold sensations of waterfall spray as you make your way around the loop. The trail can get muddy, so use caution near cliff edges. This is one of the few hikes on the Oregon side of the Western Gorge that has not been affected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Fire-stricken areas are prone to dangerous mudslides during times of heavy rain, ice, and snow. That said, you still need to pay attention to recent weather events, as they can still destabilize any of the slopes in the Gorge.

Hike 38 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Rowena Plateau

This hike is one of the best in the eastern Gorge for late winter wildflowers. This nature preserve has amazing Gorge views and reliably has purple and white grass widows blooming in late February. In general, the area sees more sunshine in winter due to the rain shadow effect, making its a great destination for the winter blues. Just remember to check the latest forecasts, as the Gorge is prone to ice storms and low-elevation snow during the winter. Please respect this Nature Conservancy property by keeping your pets at home, staying on the trail, not picking the flowers, and using the boot brush at the beginning of the hike. As always when hiking in this part of the Gorge, keep an eye out for poison oak and ticks.

little feet hiking: Portland Metro

Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Central Forest Park Loop

Most people know about amazing Forest Park, but it is hard to know where in the park to hike with kids. This fun loop takes you through a less-crowded section of Forest Park. On your hike, you’ll encounter pretty forest and lots of muddy track traps to help you track any wild animals that may have traversed the trail earlier. Read more about animal track and track traps in my book.

Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hopkins Demonstration Forest

Hopkins Demonstration Forest is a lovely 140-acre privately owned forest near Beavercreek that is open to the public for hiking. There is a variety of trails here that take you past a pond, a creek, a log house, a fire lookout, and more. There are also interpretive features that teach out about the various habitats onsite. I like this property in the winter because there is so much green by way of fir needles, ferns, and other evergreen plants. There isn’t great cell service here, so make sure you know the way before leaving town.

Hike 44 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Cooper Mountain Nature Park

This Metro park is a fantastic place to hike in winter. You’ll often encounter deer amongst the oak savannah and ponderosa pines, and there are interpretive signs along the trail. On a sunny day, you can even spy a view of Mt. Hood. You can hike up to 3.2 miles, and there are some hills to get your blood pumping. Leave some time at the end of your hike to play on the nature playground. No dogs are allowed at this park.

I hope you have a wonderful winter season out on the trails. Be safe and have fun! Be sure to follow little feet hiking on Facebook and Instagram for trip reports.

Getting Kids Outside as School Starts Back Up

Published on by littlefeethikingLeave a comment

September hits and so does school, homework, soccer practice, after-school activities, social engagements, etc. That is an abrupt change to spending our days swimming, camping, hiking, riding bikes, and going to outdoor festivals. It has always been hard for me to make this change, especially because fall is so lovely in the Pacific NW. The rain doesn’t really hit hard until sometime in the middle of November, which means we have several months of ideal weather. So, why spend it all inside?

Getting outside with our kids once school starts up is certainly a challenge. It is important, though. Studies show that getting outside helps our kids’ mental and physical health. It can also help kids while they are at school by reducing stress, improving focus, and more. Add in some screen-free family connection, and there are endless benefits. 

The nice thing about getting outside with kids is that it doesn’t need to be Instagram-worthy (and I would argue that we need to normalize local, low-key outdoor activities with our kids)! Any amount of time or location outdoors WILL be beneficial. You’ve got 15 minutes? Get outside! You can certainly fit that in most days.

Here are a few ideas for getting kids outside once the school year kids off:

Whatever you do, have fun with your kids outside!

How and Where to Hike in Winter around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge

Published on by littlefeethikingLeave a comment

We all spend a lot of time indoors during our wet Pacific Northwest winters. However, with the right gear and knowledge, you can make winter one of your favorite hiking seasons. Trails are less crowded, migratory birds are in the area, and waterfalls are full. That said, weather can be unpredictable, trails can be muddier, and there may be road hazards.

little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the winter. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the winter, as well as ideas on how to hike safely with kids. Remember that you don’t have to travel far from home or spend a ton of time hiking to make it worthwhile. Even a short hike during the winter can be restorative and meaningful!

For winter hiking with kids, it can be good to stay lower in elevation, closer to cell service, and away from fire-damaged areas. It’s also a great idea to:

  • Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail. Consult WTA’s snow depth map when looking for snow conditions on a trail. Stay out of the forest when high winds are forecasted (rain plus wind can equal trees falling on roads and/or trails).
  • Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cold temperatures and rain can easily put you (and especially kids) in hypothermia territory.
  • Learn more about winter hiking from the Washington Trails Association (WTA).
  • Plan for winter driving.
  • Bring a change of clothes, extra socks and gloves, lots of snacks, something warm to drink, and something warm/dry to sit on.
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!

Now that you’ve learned a bit on how to hike in the winter, how do you know where to hike with your family? Thankfully, I’ve compiled my favorite winter hikes by book. Check them out below!

little feet hiking

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Steigerwald National Wildlife Refuge

Winter may feel a bit sleepy, but the jogging stroller friendly trail at Steigerwald takes you through an area busy with lots of wildlife. On any given winter day, you could encounter deer, birds of prey, ducks, geese, insects, and more. There are also Mt. Hood and Columbia River views. You can hike as little as 2 miles round trip to get a great nature experience, but there are also miles to add on once you connect to the Columbia River Dike Trail. This trail is a family favorite – just be prepared for the possibility of lots of wind while hiking here.

Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge – Oaks to Wetlands Trail

Winter is the best time to visit the refuge because of all the migratory birds! You don’t have to walk very far on this easy 2 mile out-and-back trail to see and hear the noisy and beautiful swans that flew south (to our area) for the winter. Along the trail, you may even come across deer, birds of prey, ducks, and more. Bring a pair of binoculars and be sure to stop to read any interpretive signs. Consider a drive on the nearby Auto Tour Route to see even closer-up views of winter waterfowl and birds of prey. There is a fee to park.

Hike 16 in little feet hiking: Bells Mountain Trail from Cold Creek Day Use Area

This hike in the Yacolt Burn State Forest is only 27 miles from downtown Vancouver, yet it feels like it is deep in the wilderness. I love this trail in the winter because there is such a deep forest feel that is even more special in the rain. There is so much green from the trees that you totally forget that the skies are gray, and the sound of the rushing creek is quite soothing. The trailhead is down a gravel road, and there is no cell service, so you’ll need to plan to be a little off the grid. A WA Discover Pass is required to park.

little feet hiking two

Hike 8 in little feet hiking two: La Center Bottoms

La Center Bottoms is an excellent place for birdwatching, especially for migratory swans and pintail ducks. The trail can be a little muddy, especially when the gravel/dirt trail turns to dirt after the first half mile. You can continue on a dirt trail for another half mile for a 2 mile total round-trip hike. Favorite parts of this trail include multiple bird blinds and fun statues near the trailhead.

Hike 10 in little feet hiking two: Tarbell Trail from Rock Creek Campground

Our family loves this trail as it is rarely busy, there are always cool things to see, and we sometimes see horses! The trail starts out by crossing the creek on a long bridge, hiking through pretty forest (with some impressive nurse logs), and then taking you through a young forest that feels like a wild holiday tree farm. It has been neat to watch the trees grow on this trail over the last 10 years. There are also a lot of large cut stumps that allow for learning about dendrochronology (the study of tree rings). A WA Discover Pass is required to park.

Hike 19 in little feet hiking two: Lacamas Lower Falls

In the winter, there is a lot of water flowing through Lacamas Park and over Lower Falls, which makes it really cool to hike to the falls this time of year. Between the pretty forest, the downed logs that are perfect for climbing, the wide stroller-friendly trail, and the bridge over the rushing creek, it’s a fantastic place to hike with kids. My favorite part of the trail, though, is the rocks. Did you know they are millions of years old? Learn more about that in my book.

little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Little Zigzag Falls

The short hike to Little Zigzag Falls is great any time of the year, but my family really enjoys it when there is just a touch of snow on the ground. The trailhead sits just above 3,000 feet in elevation, so the trail has snow much of the winter. I’m not a huge fan of driving in snow or ice, but the access to this particular trailhead is less challenging than other higher-elevation Mt. Hood hikes. Be sure to read up on winter driving, and follow chain rules. As always, come prepared with your essentials and anything else you might need for a cold, icy/snowy adventure. Thankfully, there is a traffic camera on Highway 26 right by the trailhead. Find the traffic camera for Highway 26 at USFS Rd 35 here.

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails

I love hiking at Wildwood Recreation Area on a rainy day! This awesome BLM recreation area has several miles of flat, kid-friendly trails (most of which are paved or boardwalk) and is located on the west slope of Mt. Hood. This spot is at about 1,200 feet, which means that it should stay snow-free most of the winter. When visiting, be sure to check out the relief map, the river beach, the naturalist exhibits on the boardwalk, and the awesome nurse logs along the paths. FYI, some of the boardwalks can be slippery when wet! There is a fee to park.

Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Old Salmon River Trail

If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a fairy forest, the Old Salmon River Trail in Welches is the place to visit. You can hike up to 3.8 miles out-and-back along the river through a mossy old-growth forest. There are multiple parking areas and every section of this trail is beautiful. Plan on playing by the riverbank and climbing on and hugging massive trees. Keep an eye on kids around drop-offs and the swift river. This hike is accessible most of the year, as long as snow levels aren’t too low.

little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Hike 2 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Columbia River Dike Trail

The Columbia River Dike Trail is a popular trail, but you will find fewer crowds in the winter. Winter is a fantastic time to hike, especially on cold, sunny days. Kids always seem to enjoy checking out the interpretive signs, hanging out in the dugout canoe replicas, climbing on low-hanging trees, and birdwatching. You might even see horses along the trail. Look for a view of Mt. Hood to the east on sunny days, and be prepared for windier conditions along the river.

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls

We love this hike because you can hike right up to two waterfalls on a somewhat challenging 2.4 mile loop hike. This hike is a Gorge treasure and is appropriate for kids who can navigate steep trails that are slippery when wet and are narrow with drop-offs. There are great Gorge views as well as fun trees to climb on and walk through. Be prepared for the cold sensations of waterfall spray as you make your way around the loop. The trail can get muddy, so use caution near cliff edges. This is one of the few hikes on the Oregon side of the Western Gorge that has not been affected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. Fire-stricken areas are prone to dangerous mudslides during times of heavy rain, ice, and snow. That said, you still need to pay attention to recent weather events, as they can still destabilize any of the slopes in the Gorge.

Hike 38 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Rowena Plateau

This hike is one of the best in the eastern Gorge for late winter wildflowers. This nature preserve has amazing Gorge views and reliably has purple and white grass widows blooming in late February. In general, the area sees more sunshine in winter due to the rain shadow effect, making its a great destination for the winter blues. Just remember to check the latest forecasts, as the Gorge is prone to ice storms and low-elevation snow during the winter. Please respect this Nature Conservancy property by keeping your pets at home, staying on the trail, not picking the flowers, and using the boot brush at the beginning of the hike. As always when hiking in this part of the Gorge, keep an eye out for poison oak and ticks.

little feet hiking: Portland Metro

Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Central Forest Park Loop

Most people know about amazing Forest Park, but it is hard to know where in the park to hike with kids. This fun loop takes you through a less-crowded section of Forest Park. On your hike, you’ll encounter pretty forest and lots of muddy track traps to help you track any wild animals that may have traversed the trail earlier. Read more about animal track and track traps in my book.

Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hopkins Demonstration Forest

Hopkins Demonstration Forest is a lovely 140-acre privately owned forest near Beavercreek that is open to the public for hiking. There is a variety of trails here that take you past a pond, a creek, a log house, a fire lookout, and more. There are also interpretive features that teach out about the various habitats onsite. I like this property in the winter because there is so much green by way of fir needles, ferns, and other evergreen plants. There isn’t great cell service here, so make sure you know the way before leaving town.

Hike 44 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Cooper Mountain Nature Park

This Metro park is a fantastic place to hike in winter. You’ll often encounter deer amongst the oak savannah and ponderosa pines, and there are interpretive signs along the trail. On a sunny day, you can even spy a view of Mt. Hood. You can hike up to 3.2 miles, and there are some hills to get your blood pumping. Leave some time at the end of your hike to play on the nature playground. No dogs are allowed at this park.

I hope you have a wonderful winter season out on the trails. Be safe and have fun! Be sure to follow little feet hiking on Facebook and Instagram for trip reports.

How and Where to Hike in Fall around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge

Published on by littlefeethikingLeave a comment

Fall is personally my favorite season in the Pacific Northwest. The snow level tends to hang high enough into early October to still get up into the mountains, and the mushrooms and changing leaves can be so colorful. We also get to enjoy less-rainy outdoors adventures with less heat, less smoke, and fewer mosquitoes. My favorite part, however, is all the opportunities to see salmon spawning.

little feet hiking books have some great information on hiking in the fall. Read on for mom-tested tips on where to hike with kids in the fall, as well as how to hike safely with kids.

October is the perfect time to hike in costume

What makes hiking in the fall so special?

  • Trails tend to be less crowded and it’s easier to connect with one another on a trail. Once kids go back to school, staying connected to nature is more important than ever and is actually quite helpful to their studies. Despite the busyness that fall brings, make sure to keep some routines of connecting with nature. Even a walk around the neighborhood can lead to nature discoveries.
  • The sun is setting earlier, but our nights are still mostly clear. This is a great time to introduce younger kids to stargazing. Consider a hike at dusk and watch the stars come out. For the best stargazing, find a spot away from city lights and start looking for stars about a half hour after sunset. Search for your location and find sunset times here.
  • It has been a bad year for mosquitoes and they are finally starting to die down. This makes it a great time to get into the higher elevations above 4,000 feet, where huckleberries are ripe and leaves are changing colors. We usually have till at least mid-October before snow starts falling this high. Consider checking out some higher-elevation hikes on Mt. Hood or in the Indian Heaven Wilderness in SW Washington. That said, keep an eye on the forecast – snow levels should start dropping soon!
  • Campgrounds are starting to close, but there are a few places like Lost Lake, where you can camp through mid-October. Also, many state park campgrounds allow camping year-round and this shoulder season is a great time to camp with fewer crowds and great weather.

Here are a few tips for fall hiking:

  • Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail.
  • Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cool fall temperatures and rain can still put you in hypothermia territory.
  • Keep an eye out for rainbows.
  • Teach kids how to be safe around mushrooms.
  • Stay safe during October and November hunting seasons. little feet hiking books tell you if a particular hike could be impacted by a hunting season.
  • Learn more about fall hiking from the Washington Trails Association
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!

Now that you know how to hike in the fall, how do you know where to hike with your family? No worries, I’ve got you covered. I’ve compiled my favorite fall hikes by book. Check them out below.

little feet hiking

Hike 1 in little feet hiking: Vancouver Lake North Trail

I love this hike for the falling heart-shaped cottonwood leaves and the chance to see birds preparing for winter. Leaves start changing colors in mid-October and are usually off the trees by mid-November. This 2.5 mile hike is appropriate for new hikers through adults.

Hike 5 in little feet hiking: Lucia Falls Regional Park

Lucia Falls is a year-round favorite for our family, but we especially love it in October for the salmon run. Check out this video and this post to see salmon jumping there in October. Along this short hike, you will also see lovely changing falls colors and neat mushrooms. Consider visiting on a weekend in October so you can check out Pomeroy Farm’s Pumpkin Lane after your hike. This 1 mile hike is appropriate for all ages, although littles will need help staying away from the rocks and walking through the parking lot.

Hike 7 in little feet hiking: Whipple Creek

The forest at Whipple Creek Regional Park is such an urban oasis for the area. The forest is beautiful year-round, but especially mid-October to mid-November when the big-leaf maple tree leaves fall. The trail itself is okay for all ages, but littles will need help if you encounter horses. The trails can be a bit confusing, so check out the 1 to 2.4 mile routes outlined in the book.

Hike 10 in little feet hiking: Cape Horn Upper Trailhead Hike

The Cape Horn area of the Columbia River Gorge is one of the best places to see fall colors. The problem is that most of the area isn’t too kid-friendly due to drop-offs. In little feet hiking, I’ve outlined a more kid-friendly 1 mile hike to a walled overlook of the Gorge. For a longer hike to this same spot, check out the Cape Horn hike in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge.

Hike 13 in little feet hiking: Whistle Punk Trail

The Whistle Punk trail is located in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest near Carson, so it requires a little bit of a drive. However, the drive through the Gorge and into the forest is quite lovely, and this trail also features some neat historical equipment interspersed throughout the forest. Consider tacking on a trip to the Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see adult fall Chinook and coho salmon spawning. This 1.9 mile hike is appropriate for all ages.

Hike 15 in little feet hiking: Thomas Lake

The 1.8 to 4 mile hike on the Thomas Lake trail is one of my absolute favorites in the fall. It is hard to hike into the Indian Heaven Wilderness most of the year due to snow and heavy mosquito populations. Late September into October is perfect up there – you’ll encounter pretty fall colors, cool and crisp weather, colorful mushrooms to identify, and maybe even some lingering huckleberries. The drivetime to the trail is longer than other hikes in the book, but this one is worth it.

Hike 20 in little feet hiking: Goat Marsh Lake

The 2.4 mile round trip hike to Goat Marsh Lake is one of my favorite hikes on the south side of Mt. St. Helens. In addition to hiking through ancient lava flows, you’ll have a chance to see an epic view of the volcano. Fall is special in this spot because the mosquitoes have died down (it is a marsh after all), and you are likely to see lots of frogs and colorful mushrooms.

Hike 23 in little feet hiking: Summit Springs

This 3 mile off-the-beaten-path hike doesn’t have any grand vistas, but the forest is so quiet and the fall colors in October and November are quite pretty. The hike is especially cool in foggy weather. This hike is doable for any kid that can deal with steady elevation gain, hike safely on a gravel road for a few minutes, and can either cross independently or be carried over some minor water crossings.

little feet hiking two

Hike 1 in little feet hiking two: CASEE Trails

The CASEE trails are the perfect place for a mellow fall hike with your family. On the 1.1 mile hike, you’ll walk through an arboretum with many native and non-native deciduous trees, and then you’ll dip into a native fir forest full of neat and interesting mushrooms.

Hike 9 in little feet hiking two: Battle Ground Lake Loop

Battle Ground Lake State Park is a busy place in summer, so I like to visit in the fall when leaves are changing and crowds are sparse. Hiking around the lake also provides an opportunity for some place-based learning. You can learn about the volcanic origins of this lake in my second hiking book. Littles may find this trail challenging at times due to rocks on the trail – and then there is the lake:)

Hike 12 in little feet hiking two: Fort Cascades Historic Site

This short, flat hike is another place where place-based learning can occur. This hike not only has tons of historical connections, but you also get some neat views of Bonneville Dam. Consider hiking this trail in November for fall colors and to honor Native American Heritage Month. Along the trail, you will find signposts that correlate with an online brochure detailing what each signpost. Unfortunately, much of the information you will find about this trail focuses on the western settlers and how they built forts to protect the portage from the people who once lived here. Before this land was taken in the 1850’s, the Fort Cascades Loop Trail was occupied by members of the Watlala and Cowlitz tribes. Before or after your hike, educate your kids on the people who lived here before it was taken. While this trail works for all ages, littles will need help staying off the historical equipment.

Hike 17 in little feet hiking two: Placid Lake

This hike takes you to subalpine meadows with a lovely lake. Late September and early October are the best time to hike if you want to see changing fall colors and colorful mushrooms (look, don’t touch!). Keep an eye on changing snow levels as the trailhead is located at 4,100 feet. This trail is appropriate for all ages.

Hike 20 in little feet hiking two: Lewisville Park

If you’re looking for fall colors, look no further than the 2.8 mile trail at Lewisville Park in Battle Ground! This easy trail is practically empty on a cold, wet day. Just keep your kids far away from the rushing, swollen East Fork Lewis River.

Hike 22 in little feet hiking two: Ape Cave Surface Trail

October is a fantastic time to hike the Ape Cave surface trail. The vine maple leaves are changing to a vibrant red, fun mushrooms start popping up in the forest, and you can hike along the trail through the lava fields without getting overheated. You can also explore the cave with smaller crowds (I recommend the lower cave for kids). Timed parking reservations are still required. I would avoid this with littles because it is easy to get scraped up on the lava field or fall in hole.

little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Hike 3 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Barlow Wayside

Barlow Wayside is a lovely place to see changing fall colors, but it is also known as a great place to watch spawning salmon late September to early December.. You can learn about where to look for the salmon in my Mt. Hood hiking guide. This hike is appropriate for all ages, but you will want to keep littles out of the creek to protect the salmon.

Hike 4 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Wildwood Recreation Area Trails

The Wildwood Recreation Site in Welches is such a neat place. If you visit in the fall, you will definitely see changing falls colors, but you are also likely to meet some small fry at the fish viewing window and see salmon spawning in the Salmon River from late August through November. This hike is great for all ages.

Hike 8 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Salmon River Trail

The 4 mile out-and-back hike on the Salmon River Trail is excellent in the fall. You’ll see spawning salmon, changing fall leaves, and lots of mushrooms. There are some drop-offs and the trail can be slippery when wet, so this hike is best-suited for more confident older hikers.

Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Lookout Mountain

Lookout Mountain is one of my favorite hikes around. In addition to volcano views of Mt. Hood, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, Mt. Jefferson, and Mt. St. Helens, a visit in the fall will allow you to see western larch trees up close on the drive to the trailhead, and also in the distance from the top of the mountain. These deciduous conifers only grow on the east slopes of our PNW mountains and the needles change to a golden yellow starting mid-October before dropping off completely. Be sure to visit this one in early to mid-October before snow closes the road. This hike is best for older kids who can handle trails with steep drop-offs.

Hike 41 in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood: Lost Lake Lakeshore/Old Growth Loop

Lost Lake is a family favorite for fall hiking and camping (open through mid-October). The lake trail is flat and offers excellent views of Mt. Hood and changing fall colors. You can even rent boats on-site through the middle of October. This hike is appropriate for all ages, but littles will need help staying out of the lake and crossing campground roads.

little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Hike 6 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Cape Horn

One of my favorite places to hike in the fall is Cape Horn on the Washington side. It’s so close to town and the fall colors are amazing…unfortunately many of the trails around Cape Horn are not kid-friendly due to drop-offs and cliff top viewpoints with no barriers. My first book outlines an easy and flat 1-2ish mile round trip hike that takes you to an awesome overlook with barrier walls. My Gorge book includes a longer and steeper (but not too steep) 3 mile hike that takes you to multiple viewpoints and through a neat tunnel (you can see some of the viewpoints and the tunnel on a shorter, less steep option too). Both are more kid-friendly (there are still risks and caution will need to be used near roads and cliffs) but you won’t find either of these kid-specific hiking routes described anywhere else.

Hike 9 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Latourell Falls

Latourell Falls in the Columbia Gorge, taken in Oregon in Autumn. Taken with a medium format film camera.

This 2.2 mile hike takes you past several waterfalls and is one of the few kid-friendly Gorge trails not impacted by recent wildfires. In the fall, the changing colors are magnificent and so are the mushroom sightings. There are some drop-offs and the trail can be quite slippery when wet.

Hike 18 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Ruckel Creek Falls

One of the best places in the area to see salmon spawning is in Eagle Creek by the Cascade Salmon Hatchery. I don’t think the infamous Eagle Creek trail is safe for most kids, but I’ve crafted a more kid-friendly hike starting at this trailhead and passing one of my favorite salmon spawning viewing spots. The best time to see salmon spawning here is late-September to mid-October. This hike is okay for all ages but littles will need help staying out of the creek, walking through the parking lot, getting to the bottom of the waterfall, and not falling over the bridge above the waterfall.

Hike 21 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Pool of the Winds and Little Beacon Rock

The hike to Pool of the Winds is one of my favorite trails, but it can be hard to hike in the summer due to its popularity. As we move into October and November, the trails should be less busy and it should be easier to find a parking spot so you can get those amazing Hamilton Mountain and waterfall views. This hike’s elevation gain can be challenging on little legs and there are some drop-offs, so I recommend this hike for sure-footed hiker kids.

Hike 32 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Starvation Creek State Park

I love the Columbia River Highway Trail heading west from Starvation Creek State Park because of its lovely waterfalls and it’s accessibility. The trail is paved, making it okay for strollers and even bicycles. As we move into the rainy season, the waterfalls will get fuller and colorful leaves will drop to the ground. It can be quite noisy due to the interstate, FYI. This hike is appropriate for all ages.

Hike 37 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge: Catherine Creek Arch Loop

On the west side of the Columbia River Gorge, most of the leaves we see changing and falling come from big-leaf maple trees. On the east side, the most dominant deciduous tree is the mighty white oak tree. While hiking along the Catherine Creek trail in October and November, you’ll be struck by the contrast of the brown/orange oak leaves against the blue sky (because it is sunnier there than it is on the west side). This hike is best for older hikers due to elevation gain, drop-offs, and rattlesnakes (staying on the trail is the best way to avoid them).

little feet hiking: Portland Metro

Hike 3 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Wapato Access Greenway Loop

This trail on Sauvie Island is excellent in fall. On a typical hike in fall, you should see birds, caterpillars, frog, snakes, and maybe even some deer or crickets. If you visit in October, I highly recommend following your hike up with a trip to one of the island’s wonderful pumpkin patches. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help near water.

Hike 8 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Lacamas Park

Lacamas Park is lovely in the fall with lots of falling colorful leaves. There are many trails here, but my book outlines a 1.4 mile and 2.5 mile loop depending on how far you’d like to hike. Highlights include the lake, the dam, and some very cool rocks!

Hike 13 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Reed Lake

You don’t hear much about the hike around Reed Lake, but its an absolutely lovely place for a hike and nature connection. My favorite part of hiking here is the opportunity to see wildlife up close. The City of Portland and Reed College have been working tirelessly over the years to restore Reed Lake and Crystal Springs Creek to its former, healthier self. Because of this, last October (while scouting for the Portland book), my daughter and I watched an otter eat a fish in the lake. 3 miles from downtown Portland! I can’t guarantee an otter sighting, but as this area gets healthier and more salmon return to the area in fall, your chances get better every year. Learn more about the restoration work and the hike itself in my Portland book. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help near water and when walking on the road.

Hike 18 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Oxbow Regional Park

Photo from Metro website

Oxbow Regional Park is known for its fall salmon viewing, as well as its beautiful forest. My book outlines several hikes you can do, but this brochure is the best for understanding the annual salmon run. When you visit, be sure to leave enough time for kids to play on Oxbow’s two playgrounds. This hike is okay for all ages, but littles will need help with road crossings and staying out of the rushing and dangerous Sandy River.

Hike 27 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Springbrook Park

Springbrook Park has 1.2 miles of flat trails that are perfect for all ages. The park is full of big-leaf maple trees, and those trees will certainly drop large yellow leaves in the fall. Be sure to leave some time for kids to play on the nature play area inside the park.

Hike 39 in little feet hiking: Portland Metro: Hoyt Arboretum – Deciduous Loop

Hoyt Arboretum is one of the best places in the area to check out the changing seasons, especially the change from summer to fall. The arboretum’s massive deciduous tree selection is sure to put on a great show every October and November. Check out the website for seasonal activities and little feet hiking: Portland Metro for several kid-friendly loops through these changing trees. This hike is great for all ages.

Where to See Salmon Spawning this Fall

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One of the most amazing natural wonders we encounter in the Pacific Northwest is the annual fall salmon run. Salmon need cold, clean water and large amounts of gravel or sediment to lay their eggs (spawn), which is why you’ll encounter them in some of our local creeks and rivers. Salmon spawn at the end of their lives – they spend 3 or 4 years out in the ocean before swimming back to the freshwater area where they were born. Watching fish complete this instinctual cycle is a sight to behold, and thankfully there are some kid-friendly places in the Portland-Vancouver area where families can witness this wonder.

Below is a list of the best places to take kids to see salmon spawning in the fall. Be sure to pick up a copy of the relevant little feet hiking guide to give you the best information for a safe, educational, and fun salmon-watching adventure. 

P.S. Salmon poisoning is a thing for dogs. Look into this and keep dogs away from spawning areas for their safety.

Lucia Falls Regional Park

  • Easy stroller-friendly hike is appropriate for all ages, although littles will need help staying away from the rocks and walking through the parking lot
  • You will see salmon jumping the falls starting in late September and through the end of October at least (sometimes you’ll see into December)
  • Check out this video and this post to see salmon jumping there in October
  • You’ll also encounter lovely changing falls colors and neat mushrooms
  • Stop over to Pomeroy Farm’s Pumpkin Lane after your hike if visiting on an October weekend
  • Please avoid ALL water contact to protect the salmon
  • Learn more in little feet hiking

Wahclella Falls

  • Harder hike with dangerous cliff edges
  • This is one of the best waterfall hikes around
  • Avoid this trail during heavy rain due to fire damage and cliffs
  • After your hike, stop by Bonneville Fish Hatchery to see the fish ladder
  • Learn more about this hike and its connection to the hatchery in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Ruckel Creek

  • Easy hike is okay for all ages but littles will need help staying out of the creek, walking through the parking lot, getting to the bottom of the waterfall, and not falling over the bridge above the waterfall
  • The hike starts from the Eagle Creek trailhead, which is one of the best places in the area to see salmon spawning
  • The Eagle Creek trail is not kid-friendly, but I’ve crafted a more kid-friendly hike starting at this trailhead and passing one of my favorite salmon spawning viewing spots
  • Best time to see salmon spawning here is late-September to mid-October
  • Learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Oxbow Regional Park 

  • Hikes are okay for all ages, but littles will need help with road crossings and staying out of the rushing and dangerous Sandy River
  • There are several hikes in the book that take you through the park, but this brochure is the best for understanding the annual salmon run
  • When you visit, be sure to leave enough time for kids to play on Oxbow’s two playgrounds
  • There is usually an event at the end of October celebrating the return of the salmon
  • Learn more about the hikes in little feet hiking: Portland Metro

Barlow Wayside

  • Hike is appropriate for hikers who can handle stairs and small cliffs, and you will want to keep littles out of the creek to protect the salmon
  • Watch salmon spawn at Barlow Wayside late September through early December
  • Visit in November for lovely fall colors
  • See if you can find and touch the waterfall along the trail
  • Learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Wildwood Recreation Area

  • Two short and easy hikes that are ADA-accessible and stroller-friendly
  • Use caution near the Salmon River’s edge
  • Visit in fall for lovely changing fall colors
  • Visit the fish viewing window to look for smaller fish
  • Watch for salmon spawning in the Salmon River from late August through November
  • Learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Old Salmon River

  • Hike has some cliffier sections, but is okay for most hikers
  • Hike through beautiful old-growth forest along a river named for the very salmon that spawn there
  • Look for salmon spawning late September through early December
  • Be sure to make some time to play on the river beaches, using caution near the river’s edge
  • There are multiple trailheads for this hike; learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Salmon River Trail

  • Harder hike for stronger hikers; there are some cliffs in the beginning of the hike
  • Hike through old-growth forest along the Salmon River
  • Look for salmon spawning late September through early December
  • Look for spawning salmon whenever you are close to the river
  • Learn about nurse logs in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood, and identify them along the trail

Which spot will you visit first?

Mt. Hood Must-do Summer Hikes and Campground Recommendations

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Summer is the best time to visit the Mt. Hood area. There are so many lovely lakes, and the mountain views are outstanding! While I got my feet wet (literally) at PNW hiking in the Columbia River Gorge, Mt. Hood is where I really got hooked on hiking, backpacking, local history and my naturalist studies. It is such a gift to be able to hike in such breathtaking surrounds and learn so much while doing it.

Mt. Hood has a lot of trails, many of which are not kid-friendly. The area can also be quite rugged with limited cell service and bad roads. The good news is that there are at least 45 kid-friendly hikes around this dormant volcano (although it is considered potentially active and could become more active at some point). Continue reading to find out my favorite hikes (and nearby campgrounds) from my third book little feet hiking: Mt. Hood. For the best information, including where to hike when the mountain is hiding, as well as almost all the details you need for a safe and fun family hike, pick up a copy on Amazon or at Vintage Books before hitting the trail.

Pro-tips for hiking in the summertime around Mt. Hood:

  • Remember that not every trail will be right for your family. I go into this more in my books, but please assess your family members’ hiking abilities and pay attention to the risks outlined so that you can determine if a trail is right for your family. Many trails in the Mt. Hood area are quite remote, and you may encounter wildlife. Thoroughly-researched trail guides will prepare you better than free apps generated by all types of users.
  • If it is warm in town, it still may be cool in the mountains. On the morning of your hike, check daytime and overnight weather conditions and make sure to bring the right gear. Often, mountain mornings start out foggy/cloudy and afternoons get sunny. It is good to plan for changing weather conditions. To find the most accurate forecast, visit NOAA, and click on the spot closest to where you’ll be hiking (check the elevation).
  • Make sure to check mountain snow levels.
  • Educate yourself on summer safety.
  • Don’t forget your mosquito repellant, sun protection, and anti-itch cream!
  • Check for wildfires and smoke, as well as air quality.
  • In summer, water can still be cold and swift or even unsafe due to toxins. Washington.gov has great tips for keeping kids safe or learn more about kids and water safety here.
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!

WEST SIDE HIKES

Old Salmon River Trail

  • 1.2 to 2.8 miles round trip
  • Shady trail with big trees and beautiful river
  • Auto break-ins can be an issue here, so plan accordingly with this advice
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain
  • Learn about the old-growth trees you’ll encounter in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Little Zigzag Canyon

  • 2.4 miles round trip
  • This hike is an excellent way to experience the alpine areas of Mt. Hood with the comfort of flush toilets inside historic Timberline Lodge
  • See if you can spot Trillium Lake and Mt. Jefferson
  • There are some drop-offs on this hike, so use caution
  • Keep an eye and ear out for marmots (learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood)

Trillium Lake

  • 1.9 mile round trip loop
  • Add on a swim or boat rental after your hike, or consider camping in the adjacent campground
  • Very busy on summer weekends, so consider visiting on a weekday
  • Learn about the historical significance of this neat area in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

SOUTH SIDE HIKES

Little Crater Lake

  • 1.4 to 3.2 miles round trip
  • Barrier-free trail to a very geologically-interesting turquoise lake; less barrier-free beyond
  • Swimming isn’t allowed in the lake, and bug spray is a good idea
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain
  • Learn about how Little Crater Lake was formed in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
  • Consider making it an overnight at adjacent Crater Lake Campground

Buck Lake

  • 1 mile round trip
  • The lake destination is a great place to wade in the water, go fishing, or look for rough-skinned newts
  • The trailhead can be hard to find and there is no cell service; find directions and weblinks in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain

Lower Twin Lake

  • 4 miles round trip
  • This busy hike takes you along the Pacific Crest Trail to a picture-perfect lake
  • Consider bringing your overnight gear and nabbing a lakeside campsite
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain
  • Nearby Frog Lake Campground and Day Use Area is fantastic for viewing frogs in summer

Anvil Lake

  • 2.9 miles round trip
  • This hike is more obscure and remote, so you’ll definitely need to arrived prepared (get all the deets in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood)
  • One of my favorites, this hike takes you through old-growth forest and through boggy meadows to a lovely lake
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain
  • Keep an eye out for elk and lots of wildflowers
  • Consider booking a campsite at nearby Timothy Lake

EAST SIDE HIKES

Cloud Cap/Tilly Jane Historic District

  • 1.7 to 2.1 miles round trip
  • The view of Mt. Hood from Cloud Cap is one of the best around
  • Keep an eye out for marmots in the rock fields
  • Bring overnight gear to stay in adjacent Tilly Jane or Cloud Cap Saddle campgrounds
  • Learn about the historic Cloud Cap Inn and Tilly Jane Historic District in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Five Mile Butte

  • 1.4 to 4.4 miles round trip
  • This hike offers up a relatively unique east-facing perspective of the drier part of the state
  • You won’t find this hike description anywhere other than little feet hiking: Mt. Hood
  • Please respect any visitors who are paying to stay at the lookout; you won’t be able to go up the stairs or in the lookout, but you can still walk underneath it

Tamawanas Falls

  • 3.8 miles round trip
  • The waterfall is pretty epic, and there are some neat rock formations seen from the trail
  • The trail has some cliffs and challenging rock fields
  • It can be quite busy on summer weekend, and is great on a cloudy day
  • Nearby Nottingham Campground is a family favorite

Umbrella Falls

  • 4.1 miles round trip
  • While the destination is a lovely waterfall, I hike it for the spectacular wildflowers blooming in summer
  • Keep an eye out for Mt. Hood views and bring bug spray
  • Great for a cloudy day up on the mountain
  • Read up on the descriptions and risks (like a few cliffs) in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood

Lookout Mountain

  • 2.5 or 2.7 mile round-trip miles
  • Hike up to an amazing 360-degree mountaintop viewpoint without too much elevation gain; great for kids who want to summit a mountain
  • There are cliffs along the trail; please read up on the risks of this particular trail
  • Look for wildflowers in the meadows
  • Add in some place-based learning by reading about the rain shadow effect in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood, and then seeing if first-hand from the summit of Lookout Mountain

NORTH SIDE HIKES

Lost Lake Lakeshore Trail

  • 1.6 or 3.2 miles round trip
  • Hike through old growth forest and along one of the most picturesque lakes around
  • Consider adding on a campground, yurt, or the lodge stay at Lost Lake Resort
  • Rent a boat at the resort, or plan for some lake play

Vista Ridge to the Rockpile

  • 4 miles round trip
  • This high-elevation hike takes you through wildflower meadows to some awesome views of Mt. Hood (and without the big elevation gain normally required for this type of view)
  • Listen for pikas (learn more in little feet hiking: Mt. Hood)
  • There are cliffs and other hazards along the trail; please read up on the risks of this particular trail

Bald Mountain

  • 1.6 round-trip miles
  • Hike through amazing forest before getting to one of the best Mt. Hood views of all time
  • Look for fairies in the forest
  • There is a very dangerous cliff on this hike; read little feet hiking: Mt. Hood for details on how to prepare for that cliff and where to stop your hike before getting to it

Are you ready to plan for your next adventure? Now go out and enjoy making some summertime family memories!

Columbia River Gorge Must-do Summer Hikes

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The Columbia River Gorge is amazing year-round, but summertime seems to be most people’s favorite time to visit. The Gorge is very busy in the summer, especially on weekends, so it is best to visit in the early morning, late afternoon, or weekdays. You can also try out some lesser-known hikes and try to avoid the crowds (more on that below). It can be hard to know which hikes are appropriate for kids, especially since there are so many online resources labeling cliffy or steep hikes as kid-friendly. I’ve been hiking in the Gorge for over 15 years, and my daughter has been hiking there since she was a toddler….we’ve done the research and scouting for you! 

While most of the 50 hikes in my kids Gorge hiking book, little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge, can be hiked in summer, some are better than others. I’ve picked the must-do summertime hikes from my book, and listed them below. For the best information, including almost all the details you need for a safe and fun family hike, pick up a copy on Amazon or at Vintage Books before hitting the trail.

Pro-tips for hiking in the summertime in the Columbia River Gorge:

  • Remember that not every trail will be right for your family. I go into this more in my books, but please assess your family members’ hiking abilities and pay attention to the risks outlined so you can determine if a trail is right for your family
  • When hiking in the Gorge, especially near or east of Cascade Locks/North Bonneville, make sure you do a tick check after your hike and watch out for poison oak.
  • Rattlesnakes can be seen along some Eastern Gorge hikes, so advise kiddos not to climb on or stick their hands into rock piles. 
  • The Eastern Gorge can be quite hot in the summer, so these hikes are best done early in the morning or in the late afternoon. 
  • If it is warm in town, it still may be cool in the mountains. On the morning of your hike, check daytime and overnight weather conditions and make sure to bring the right gear.
  • Make sure to check mountain snow levels.
  • Educate yourself on summer safety.
  • Auto thefts happen
  • Don’t forget your mosquito repellant, sun protection, and anti-itch cream!
  • Check for wildfires and smoke, as well as air quality.
  • In summer, water can still be cold and swift or even unsafe due to toxins. Washington.gov has great tips for keeping kids safe or learn more about kids and water safety here.
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!

Latourell Falls

  • 2.2 round-trip miles
  • This is one of a handful of kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes unaffected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire
  • There is easy creek access for a bit of splashing
  • The rock formations on this hike are amazing
  • Visit during off hours or on weekdays in order to find parking

Larch Mountain Environmental Education Site

  • 0.9 to 1.8 miles round-trip
  • Practically unknown hike, so it shouldn’t be busy
  • Visit this site for solitude, shade, and creek play
  • Look for Oregon Slender Salamanders (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)

Emerald Falls

  • 1.2 round-trip miles
  • This is a more obscure hike that isn’t written about in too many places
  • The hike to Emerald Falls is less crowded than other kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes
  • Keep an eye out for water ouzels

Starvation Creek State Park

  • 0.6 – 4 round-trip miles
  • Paved and stroller-friendly way to access up to three waterfalls
  • Can be noisy due to proximity to the interstate
  • Lots of spots for water-splashing

St. Cloud Day Use Area

  • 1 to 1.5 miles round-trip
  • Great spot for animal tracking when water is low (learn more about the bear and beavers that live there in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
  • Rocky beach is great for river access
  • Use caution near the river

Larch Mountain

  • 0.6 mile or 4.2 round-trip miles
  • Amazing mountaintop view of 5 volcanoes
  • Wildflowers abound in summer
  • The amazing forest here is unlike any other
  • The 4.2 mile route isn’t described anywhere else other than little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge

Nellie Corser Wildlife Unit

  • 0.85 round-trip mile
  • This short hike is lesser-known and lovely
  • The creek offers cool water to splash in on a warm day
  • Pay special attention to directions in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge so you can avoid private property and ledges

Hood River Waterfront Trail

  • 2.8 miles out-and back (but you can do less)
  • Paved, stroller-friendly trail takes you past a playground and river access
  • The trail is fun for watching kiteboarders and windsurfers in the summer

Dry Creek Falls

  • 3.8 mile round-trip miles
  • Hike through shady forest, right up to a waterfall
  • There is good parking at the trailhead
  • Look for wildflowers along the way

Nick Eaton Falls

  • 4.4 round-trip miles
  • This hike has shade, wildflowers, and a nice waterfall you can walk right up to
  • The hike was impacted by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
  • This trail is cliffy and best for older hikers

Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail

Mosier Tunnels

  • 2+ round-trip miles
  • Paved and stroller-friendly walk in and out of historical tunnels
  • Great place in the eastern Gorge to hike on a hot day due to its shade

Hope you found this helpful! Now go out and enjoy making some summertime family memories!

How and Where to Hike in Spring around Portland, Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Hood, and the Columbia River Gorge

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Hiking at Lucia Falls during the camas bloom

Spring is such a mixed bag around here. In a given year, we can have snow, ice, rain, hail, and sunshine. Spring in the PNW means wildflowers are popping up everywhere, the waterways are full, and temperatures are (should be??) warming up.

Looking for migratory birds at Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge

It can be hard to know where to hike in the spring since the weather is constantly changing and snow levels are still quite low. Urban trails, as well as the local national wildlife refuges are usually a good bet with their low elevation and migratory bird excitement. Hikes in the Gorge, as well as most hikes below 2,000 feet are a good bet in spring.

Admiring Latourell Falls in the Columbia River Gorge

While I can’t fully prepare you for spring hiking, below are a few tips on how to hike with your kids in spring:

  • Plan for quickly changing weather. Check the weather the morning of your hike, but make sure you have extra layers for rain, wind, or hail.
  • Dress in layers and avoid cotton. The combination of cool spring temperatures and rain can still put you in hypothermia territory.
  • If you are going up into the area’s national forests, check conditions on trailhead pages (included in book descriptions), as well as here for the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and here for the Mt. Hood National Forest
  • Assume you will encounter mud and bring a change of clothes for kiddos!
  • Make sure you do a tick check after your hike and watch out for poison oak, especially when hiking through oak woodlands and east of the Cascades. Learn about how to hike in tick country.
  • Keep an eye out for rainbows.
  • Maintain reasonable expectations and have fun!
  • Check out these great spring hiking tips from the Washington Trails Association.
  • Consider an after-dinner hike as sunset gets later.
Checking out the Willamette River at Canemah Bluff

Now that you know how to hike in spring, how do you know where to hike with your family? No worries, I’ve got you covered. I’ve compiled my favorite spring hikes by book. Check them out below.

For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Portland area, visit this page.

For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Mt. St. Helens, Southwest Washington, Vancouver, and Clark County areas, visit this page.

For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Columbia River Gorge, visit this page.

For springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Mt. Hood area, stay tuned for a future post.

Vancouver, Mt. St. Helens, and Southwest Washington Must-do Spring Hikes

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Curious where to hike with your kids this spring in the Vancouver, Clark County, and Southwest Washington Areas? Look no further because I’ve written two kids hiking guides covering 55 hikes in the area. While some of these hikes will be covered in snow for a few more months, there are so many other hikes that are accessible and lovely in spring.

I’ve picked the must-do spring hikes from my books little feet hiking and little feet hiking two. You can get all the details you need for a safe and fun family hike by picking up a copy and hitting the trail.

Book 1: little feet hiking

One of the trails at Vancouver Lake Regional Park

Vancouver Lake North Trail

  • Near downtown Vancouver
  • 2.5 to 4.5 miles
  • Stroller-friendly
  • Visit in spring to see migratory birds and early budding black cottonwood trees
  • Catch a glimpse of Mt. Hood on a clear day
  • Leave time for some playground play
  • little feet hiking educates about the neat cottonwood trees you’ll see on this trail
Blooming trillium in the Salmon-Morgan Creek Natural Area

Salmon-Morgan Creek Natural Area

  • Brush Prairie
  • 1.25 to 1.75 miles
  • In spring, look for trillium flowers, wood sorrel, fern fiddleheads, bleeding heart flowers, and other native plants
  • Check out a native plant field guide from the Fort Vancouver Regional Library System
  • We love this place for the big trees and nurse logs; learn more about both of these in little feet hiking
Birdwatching at Steigerwald; see the peak of Mt. Hood in the distance

Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge

  • Washougal
  • 2 to 4 miles; stroller-friendly
  • I’ve been leading kids on hikes at this refuge for 10 years; it is an amazing place to introduce kids to birdwatching and conservation
  • Visit in spring to watch for migratory birds
  • Seasonal trails open up in May and there isn’t much shade on this hike
  • Learn about migratory birds like ospreys in little feet hiking
Salmon jumping the falls in May 2021

Lucia Falls Regional Park

  • Yacolt
  • 1.25 miles
  • Stroller-friendly
  • Visit in spring to look for early native plants, camas lilies, and salmon jumping the falls in April and May
  • To protect this unique habitat, be sure to avoid any contact with the water
  • Learn about salmon and the East Fork Lewis River in little feet hiking
Blooming camas in the Lacamas Lily Field

Round Lake and Lacamas Lily Field

  • Camas
  • 1.25 to 1.5 miles
  • Visit in spring to visit the camas lily fields
  • Scan Round Lake for water birds
  • Leave time to visit the playground along the trail
  • Learn about camas and environmental stewardship in little feet hiking
Toddler plopped in the middle of the trail heading into the refuge; see the plankhouse in the distance

Ridgefield Wildlife Refuge

  • Ridgefield
  • 1 to 3.8 miles
  • Visit in spring to see the arrival of migratory birds; seasonal trails open in May
  • Keep an eye and an ear out for passing trains
  • Visit one of my favorite trees, known for being a lunch spot for local birds of prey (see the guide for more information)
  • Learn about bird migration in little feet hiking
Wild irises along the Tarbell Trail

Tarbell Trail from Tarbell Picnic Area

  • Yacolt Burn State Forest
  • 1.6+ miles
  • This is one my favorite local hikes: there are amazing wildflowers April through June, and you can see three volcanoes on clear days
  • Learn about the local volcanoes in little feet hiking
View of Mt. St Helens from the trail

Hummocks Trail

  • West side of Mt. St. Helens
  • 2.4 miles
  • This lower elevation hike is the best kid-friendly hike to see into the crater of Mt. St. Helens
  • Add on a trip to nearby Coldwater Learning Center and Coldwater Lake
  • Wildflowers can start popping up in May
  • Learn about hummocks in little feet hiking

Book 2: little feet hiking two

Checking out one of the wetlands along the Kiwa Trail

Kiwa Trail

  • Ridgefield
  • 1.5 miles
  • Seasonal trail that opens May 1st
  • One of the best places around to see nesting swallows
  • Over the last few years, sandhill cranes have nested in the area and delayed opening
  • Learn about tree swallows and check the trail’s status in little feet hiking two
Trail view of the Oregon side of the Gorge

Doetsch Ranch Loop

  • Near North Bonneville
  • 1.2 miles
  • This area is part of the Washington State Birding Trail and is a great place for birdwatching
  • Enjoy views of Beacon Rock, Hamilton Mountain, and the Oregon side of the Columbia River Gorge
  • Learn about Beacon Rock and the Missoula Floods in little feet hiking two
Springtime view of Mt. St. Helens from the boardwalk trail

Silver Lake

  • Castle Rock
  • 1 mile barrier-free dirt and boardwalk loop
  • Excellent for bird-watching, and spotting frogs and lily pads
  • Catch a glimpse of Mt. St. Helens on a clear day
  • Add on a visit to next-door Mount St. Helens Visitor Center
  • Learn about frogs and lily pads in little feet hiking two
Double rainbow over Columbia Springs

Columbia Springs

  • Vancouver
  • 1.75 miles
  • Spring is an excellent time to visit in order to watch for birds, identify native plants, and see the fish in the ponds
  • Keep an eye on the website for interesting family events
  • Learn about the history of the onsite hatchery in little feet hiking two
‘Tightrope walking’ in La Center Bottoms

La Center Bottoms

  • La Center
  • 2.2 miles
  • Hike along wetlands, keeping an eye out for migratory and resident birds
  • Consider bringing along a bird guide and binoculars
  • The trails can flood during times of heavy rain
  • Learn about bird migration in little feet hiking two
Checking out the lake at Battle Ground Lake State Park

Battle Ground Lake State Park

  • Battle Ground
  • 1 mile loop, but can add on additional miles on outer trails
  • Enjoy watching birds, including bald eagles and cormorants
  • Add on a spring camping trip in the adjacent campground
  • The trails can be muddy during times of heavy rain
  • Learn about the volcanic origins of the lake in little feet hiking two
Approaching the bridge that crosses Rock Creek

Tarbell Trail from Rock Creek Campground

  • Yacolt Burn State Forest
  • 2+ miles
  • This trail offers a bit more solitude, although you may encounter mountain bikers and horses
  • Visit for the creek, flowers, birdsong, and empty trails; be sure to bring sun protection on clear days
  • Learn how to practice dendrochronology on the trail in little feet hiking two
Springtime view from the trail

Catherine Creek Trail

  • 1.4 to 2.6 miles
  • This trail is very popular in spring due to amazing wildflowers and spring sunshine
  • Make sure you do a tick check after your hike
  • You can add on a shorter accessible 0.25 to 1.25 mile round-trip hike
  • Learn about why this side of the Gorge is so much sunnier in little feet hiking two
View from one of several river beaches

Lewis River Trail

  • Gifford Pinchot National Forest
  • 4.6 miles
  • This trail is known for its large Western red cedar trees and proximity to the beautiful Lewis River
  • Hike in May to see fairy slipper orchids
  • Learn about Western red cedars trees in little feet hiking two

There are many more excellent springtime hikes in the area. For Portland area spring hikes with kids, check out this post. For Columbia River Gorge area spring hikes with kids, check out this post.

Columbia River Gorge Must-do Spring Hikes

Published on by littlefeethikingLeave a comment

The Columbia River Gorge is amazing in spring, but it can be hard to know where to safely hike with kids or where to go to see the best wildflowers. I’ve been hiking in the Gorge for over 15 years, and my daughter has been hiking there since she was a toddler. So many Gorge hikes are too steep or cliffy for kids…thankfully, I’ve done the research and scouting for you! While most of the 50 hikes in my kids Gorge hiking book, little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge, can be hiked in spring, some are better than others. I’ve picked the must-do spring hikes from my book, and listed them below. For the best information, including almost all the details you need for a safe and fun family hike, pick up a copy on Amazon before hitting the trail.

Pro-tip: When hiking in the Gorge, especially near or east of Cascade Locks/North Bonneville, make sure you do a tick check after your hike and watch out for poison oak. Rattlesnakes can be seen along some Eastern Gorge hikes, so advise kiddos not to climb on or stick their hands into rock piles.

WESTERN GORGE

Cape Horn

  • 0.8 to 3 round-trip miles
  • Many hike routes in the Cape Horn area are dangerous for kids due to cliffs; check out my guide for lesser-known and less-cliffy variations
  • Visit in May for the epic delphinium bloom
  • Keep an eye out for peregrine falcons (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
  • Kids will need help staying to away from overlook and cliff edges

Wahclella Falls

  • This is one of the best waterfall hikes around
  • 2.4 round-trip miles
  • Avoid this trail during heavy rain due to fire damage and cliffs
  • After your hike, stop by Bonneville Fish Hatchery (learn more about this hike’s connection to the hatchery in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
  • Kids will need help staying to away from cliff edges

Sandy River Delta

  • 2.5 round-trip miles
  • Excellent for birdwatching in springtime
  • Practice being still and watching for migratory spring birds in the Maya Lin Bird Blind (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)
  • Avoid the hike if you aren’t a fan of dogs

Latourell Falls

  • 2.2 round-trip miles
  • This is one of a handful of kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes unaffected by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire
  • The trail is very colorful in April – look for trillium, bleeding heart, corydalis, salmonberry, and wood sorrel
  • The rock formations on this hike are amazing!

CENTRAL GORGE

Pool of the Winds and Little Beacon Rock

  • 3 miles round-trip to visit both
  • Look for spring wildflowers all throughout spring; larkspur and chocolate lilies are especially lovely
  • Listen and look for American Pikas on this trail (learn more in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)

Emerald Falls

  • 1.2 round-trip miles
  • This is a more obscure hike that isn’t written about in too many places
  • The hike to Emerald Falls is less crowded than other kid-friendly Gorge waterfall hikes
  • Keep an eye out for water ouzels

Starvation Creek State Park

  • 0.6 – 4 round-trip miles
  • Paved and stroller-friendly way to access up to three waterfalls
  • Can be noisy due to proximity to the interstate
  • Waterfalls should be full with spring run-off

EASTERN GORGE

Lower Labyrinth Falls

  • 2.2 miles round-trip
  • You won’t find this hike description anywhere other than little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
  • Touch a waterfall and check out amazing spring wildflowers (learn about some trail-specific wildflowers in my book)
  • Stay on the trail to avoid poison oak

Coyote Wall

  • 3.6 to 4.6 round-trip miles
  • Coyote Wall is not the most kid-friendly due to cliffs, but in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge, I’ve detailed the most spectacular kid-friendly loop on the wall
  • Learn about the threatened western meadowlark that calls Coyote Wall home
  • There is no shade on this hike, so plan accordingly

Crawford Oaks

  • 4.5 round-trip miles
  • This is a harder hike due to elevation gain and lack of shade, but you can hike less and still experience awesome views and flowers
  • Visit in spring to see amazing wildflowers like lupine, larkspur, and balsamroot
  • Learn about the history of the area by visiting the nearby interpretive ranch

Memaloose Hills

  • 2.8 to 3.6 round-trip miles
  • This hike is very popular on weekends, consider a weekday or late afternoon weekend hike
  • Spot two volcanoes from the top of the hills
  • Be sure to stay on the trail and not damage the wildflowers

Klickitat River Trail from Fisher Hill Bridge

  • 2.6+ round-trip miles
  • So many interesting things on this trail: river, wildflower, fish hatchery machinery, and tribal fishing
  • Learn about the history of tribal fishing on the Klickitat in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge
  • Keep an eye out for bald eagles

Rowena Plateau

  • 2.3 round-trip miles
  • This hike is known for its epic wildflower bloom, so visit on a weekday or weekend afternoons if possible
  • Learn about conservation in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge and teach your kids
  • Stay on the trail and please do not pick the flowers

Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail

  • 0.25 to 1.25 round-trip miles
  • Paved and stroller-friendly walk through wildflower meadows
  • Can add on a longer, less-accessible 2 to 2.8 mile round-trip hike (see Hike #37 in little feet hiking: Columbia River Gorge)

Hope you found this helpful! Now go out and enjoy make some springtime family memories!

P.S. If you’re looking for the best springtime kid-friendly hikes around Portland, check out this post! Also, check out this post for springtime kid-friendly hikes in the Vancouver/SW Washington area.