Angel's Rest Lookout

A great out-and-back that climbs up to Angel's Rest to bask in the views. This is a very popular hike so you'll almost certainly have plenty of company on the trail and at the top. The views are well worth enduring the crowds!

The Angel's Rest Trail starts gradually through a lush forest that is dotted with wildflowers in the spring and glows with the changing color of leaves in the fall. The broad path soon narrows to easily manageable singletrack with a little rock mixed in.

The trail is full of interesting points, like a rocky section that provides a great view of the river as it cuts across a beautiful mossy slope. This viewpoint leads into a section of close growing vegetation that creates the pleasant impression of a tunnel during the growing months. Ahead you'll soon reach Coopey Falls as it musically cascades over 150'.

Continuing on, the trail begins to moderately steepen as it heads towards a series of tightly clustered switchbacks. Just past the switchbacks is a boulder field traverse that lets you know your close to the top of the hike. Make sure to investigate the views behind you before moving on.

A final switchback brings the trail to the junction with the Viewpoint Spur. Looking straight ahead will reveal the long line of tall cliffs that make up Angel's Rest. As you traverse along the spur there's just one small scramble section between you and the edge of the outcropping. Get ready to enjoy the excellent views of the Columbia Gorge you've earned.

It goes without saying that Angel's Rest makes a fine spot to enjoy lunch. When you're ready to head back down, simply retrace your steps back to the trailhead.

Spring wildflowers in the Columbia River Gorge are, ahem, gorgeous.