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    Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    4-6h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    13.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    697 m
    User Ratings
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    Directions to Trailhead

    The hike to Hamilton Mountain is a spectacular trip that captures the best of the Columbia Gorge. Admire snow-capped peaks, changing foliage, the deep blue river, and multiple waterfalls, including Rodney Falls. This is a hard hike, but it’s worth the extra bit of work for beginners. The trip comes in at 12.9 km with 697 m of elevation gain.

    This trail can be done either as an out and back or as a loop. This route guide follows the loop, which is a touch longer but offers more varied scenery. While the trail is generally quite well-maintained, poles might be helpful for the elevation gain. You likely won’t need a GPS track for this route as the junctions are very well signed.

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    Route Description for Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike

    The natural beauty of Beacon Rock State Park never fails to impress, and the hike up Hamilton Mountain is an especially enjoyable way to take it all in. This hike also takes you to Rodney Falls, which is a gorgeous midpoint rest or a great turnaround point for hikers not wanting to complete the entire 2 m trip.

    This beautiful hike follows a well-maintained trail lined by wildflowers, old-growth fir trees, and strawberries. You can either do it as an out and back or a loop, but our guide reflects the slightly longer but more varied loop trail.

    You’ll begin from the trailhead, taking the obvious path. It’s wide and well-kept, leading you past ancient trees as you warm up.

    About a mile into the hike, listen for the waterfalls. There’s a steep spur trail that leads down to Hardy Falls if you want to take a look. Further on you’ll find the spur trail to Rodney Falls, which is undoubtedly more impressive. You’ll see the upper falls from the viewpoint on the spur trail and the lower falls once you’re back on the main trail.

    Expect the grade to increase after the falls. There are stairs in the trail to help you out. You’ll come to a junction signed “Hamilton Mountain, More Difficult” and “Hardy Creek Trail, Difficult”. We’re going “more difficult” here.

    Hike through the switchbacks to the top of Hamilton Mountain. The views of the Cascades are fantastic here, but heading about three-quarters of a mile northwest on the loop trail takes you to a ridge with an even better view.

    Once you reach the far northern end of the trail, you’ll be directed to the Hardy Creek Trail. Take this, heading down an old road bed. Near the creek, there’s a large intersection. Go left here and take a well-built trail to the junction with the Hamilton Mountain Trail. Turn right and return to the parking lot.

    Hiking Route Highlights

    Columbia River Gorge

    The view from Hamilton Mountain features the Columbia River Gorge, where the river slices through the mountains. You can see a wide swath of the gorge from the mountain, looking across the blue flowing water to the tree-clad mountains in both directions. You can also enjoy a great view of the Cascades.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How tall is Hamilton Mountain?

    Hamilton Mountain is 732 m tall.

    Can you swim in Beacon Rock State Park?

    The water in this area is not sampled for E.coli. You can swim but the water quality is not guaranteed.

    Insider Hints for Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike

    • Remember your Discover Pass for this hike.
    • You can buy a day pass in the park if you don’t have a Discover Pass.

    Getting to the Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike Trailhead

    The trailhead for the Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls hike is on the access road for the Beacon Rock State Park Campground off Evergreen Highway.

    Route Information

    • Backcountry Campground

      No

    • When to do

      Year-round

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Older Children only

    • Route Signage

      Good

    • Crowd Levels

      High

    • Route Type

      Loop

    Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike Elevation Graph

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    Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike Reviews

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