Hike or Run up Beacon Rock or Hamilton Mountain in the Columbia River Gorge to be entered into our June Field Trip Challenge. Beacon Rock is just under 2 miles out and back or you can get 7 plus miles at Hamilton Mountain (which is across the street and up the hill). Stop and turn around at Rodney Falls for a 2.5 mile round trip or go all the way to the top! Either way it’s a steep climb but beautiful. Virtual Clients: Pick a hike of similar distance in your area.
Hiking in the Columbia River Gorge
While the Columbia River Gorge is gorgeous and exciting, it is wilderness and we encourage you to think: “safety first.” Be aware at all times. Leave the headphones at home and use the opportunity to connect with friends and nature! Weather can also be unpredictable in the gorge so be sure to check the forecast for Stevenson, WA . We suggest taking a buddy but if you go alone be sure to let a family member or friend know what time you’re going and when you expect to be back!
Be sure to bring water and food (even if you are doing the shorter version, you will want some energy, especially if you’re doing Hamilton Mountain option, the much tougher hike. Hamilton is an easy trail to follow out and back whether you go to the waterfalls or the top as long as you AVOID SIDE TRAILS, in which case it could be easy to make your trip much longer. Beacon Rock is well marked with railings and would be a great first hike in the gorge option!
Hamilton Mountain: To the top and back down is about 7 miles. There is a loop option and other ways to go. Be sure to do your research and know your route . We recommend the out and back to keep it easy and avoid the risk of getting lost or doing more mileage than you planned. Ask us if you have questions!
Parking: You will need a Discover Pass or a day pass. They sell passes in the Beacon Rock parking lot.
Spears Strong Field Trip Challenges explained
Each month we feature a run/walk or hike/trail run for you to take on as a challenge. Test your training and use this as motivation to get outside, one of our core Spears Strong principles. Be sure to warmup before and cool down after. We suggest: Warmup: Mode Switch Boost and Cool Down: Mode Switch Decompress but whatever your coach or trainer has assigned you is also great! Send in your photo or video proof that you took on our challenge and you’ll be entered into a drawing to win a Spears Strong t-shirt!! Drawings will be held every three months: June, September, December, March