The Hardy Ridge Loop offers a serene, uncrowded alternative to more popular Beacon Rock and Hamilton Mountain Trails in Beacon Rock State Park. Tucked away in the northwest side of the park, this 8.7-mile loop takes hikers on a peaceful climb to Hardy Ridge, winding through lush second-growth conifer canopy and quiet forested trails along the way. Culminating at a rocky high point with panoramic, 360-degree vistas of Mount Hood, Mount Adams, and the sprawling Gorge below, Hardy Ridge delivers all the dramatic scenery of the Columbia Gorge—minus the crowds.

Trail Stats

• Distance: Approximately 8.7 miles
• Total Elevation Gain: Approximately 2,500 feet
• Difficulty: Difficult with substantial climbing
• Duration: 3 - 5 hours
• Best Season: Year-round (extreme weather conditions may be present in the winter and spring)
• Kid Friendliness: Due to substantial climbing, this hike is recommended for children 15 and over.
• Dog Friendliness: Dogs allowed, but must remain on leash.

Trail Description:

Start at the Equestrian Trailhead and follow the gently graded, wide Equestrian Trail for 1.2 miles to the first signed junction. Turn right onto the Lower Loop Trail, winding through a pleasant mix of deciduous hardwoods and evergreen forest before reconnecting with the main trail network near mile 2.1 at the Equestrian and East Hardy Ridge trails. (Note: Staying straight on the Equestrian Trail bypasses this loop and cuts 0.3 miles off your overall hike).

Continue on the East Hardy Ridge Trail, resuming a steady, shaded climb through tall Douglas-firs. You will pass the Bridge Trail connection near mile 2.9, after which the trail transitions to foot-traffic only near mile 3.7. The grade steepens slightly before topping out at the main saddle junction on the ridge near mile 4.1.

At the ridge junction, turn right onto the narrow spur trail and follow the ridge spine 0.75 miles up to the high point (1.5 miles round-trip). Here, you are rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views featuring Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Table Mountain, Hamilton Mountain, and the sprawling Columbia River Gorge. After taking in the sights, retrace your steps back down the spur trail to the ridge junction.

Back at the ridge junction, take the West Hardy Ridge Trail to begin your descent along the west side of the ridge. Navigate a series of short switchbacks before settling into a long, comfortable grade back toward the trailhead. Reconnect with the Equestrian Trail near cumulative mile 7.6, then follow the signs back to the trailhead to complete the 8.7-mile loop.

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 Kueffler Road (directly across from the Beacon Rock parking lot), following the signs toward the Main Campground and Hamilton Mountain Trailhead.
• Continue up Kueffler 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 Kueffler Road (located directly across WA-14 from the Beacon Rock monolith parking area).
• Follow Kueffler 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.