Nestled in a lush, mossy canyon in Washington’s Beacon Rock State Park, this hike offers an abundance of waterfall magic with three waterfalls in one trip: Hardy Falls, Rodney Falls and Pool of the Winds. Starting from the Mount Hamilton Trailhead, this easy-to-moderate, family-friendly trail gently winds through damp evergreen forest to Hardy Creek. Pause at the Hardy Falls viewpoint before crossing the footbridge over Rodney Falls and peering into the dramatic chamber of Pool of the Winds. This trail is ideal for casual hikers, families, or anyone seeking a quick, refreshing splash of Columbia River Gorge beauty.

Trail Stats
• Distance: Approximately 2 miles roundtrip
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 600 feet 
• Difficulty: Moderate, uphill hiking
• Duration: 1.5-2 hours
• Best Season: Year-round (extreme weather conditions may be present in the winter and spring) 
• Kid Friendliness: Recommended for children 12 and over, some uphill hiking. 
• Dog Friendliness: Dogs allowed, but must remain on leash.

Trail Description

From the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead, hike the trail uphill past the Bonneville Power lines, continuing toward the waterfalls at the junction. Around 1.0 miles in, you’ll cross Hardy Creek and enter into an excellent cluster of water features:

Hardy Falls: Take the short side trail to the overlook for a view above Hardy Falls. Be mindful of the steep drop-offs down this side trail.

Rodney Falls & Pool of the Winds: Just beyond Hardy Falls, a footbridge crosses over the lower pools of Rodney Falls. Rodney Falls is most spectacular in the winter and early spring, but is always a welcome break spot after the hike in. Don't miss the short spur trail leading up to Pool of the Winds—where Rodney Falls has carved out a dramatic chamber within the rocky basalt.

From the waterfall area, retrace your initial steps down the final leg of the trail to return to the trailhead parking lot.

Recommended Gear

In Winter and Early Spring, mud and snow may be present along the trail.

• Durable Hiking Boots
• Day Pack
• Hydration System
• Hiking Poles

• Binoculars

Driving Directions 

From Vancouver, WA (West)

• Drive East on WA-14 / Lewis and Clark Highway for approximately 35 miles.
• Near Milepost 35, look for the prominent landmark of Beacon Rock rising on the right (river side).
• Turn left off WA-14 onto the park road (directly across from the Beacon Rock parking lot), following the signs toward the Main Campground and Hamilton Mountain Trailhead.
• Continue up the park road for about 0.3 miles to the main parking area for the Mount Hamilton Trailhead near the upper campground.

From Cascade Locks, OR (East)

• Drive West on WA-14 W / Lewis and Clark Highway for approximately 10 miles.
• Near Milepost 35, turn right onto the park road (located directly across WA-14 from the Beacon Rock monolith parking area).
• Follow the park road uphill for roughly 0.3 miles to the Mount Hamilton Trailhead parking lot at the main campground area.
  

Note: A valid Discover Pass is required for parking at Beacon Rock State Park. You can purchase a day pass or annual pass via automated kiosks at the park or online prior to your visit. As of 2026, day passes cost $10.

More Information:

Washington State Parks | Beacon Rock State Park – Real-time updates, trail conditions, alerts, fees and restrictions.