The best walks and hikes around The Dalles

The peak season for wildflowers is spring, typically from April through May. The area's unique climate in the Columbia River Gorge creates spectacular displays. For some of the most vibrant blooms, including balsamroot and lupine, consider visiting the Tom McCall Preserve at Rowena Plateau or the Catherine Creek Recreation Area, which is renowned for its floral carpets.

Yes, there are several great options for families. The Horsethief Butte Trail loop is a short, easy walk around a dramatic butte. Another excellent choice is the Catherine Creek Recreation Area, which features a gentle 1.9-mile loop to a natural rock arch and a paved 1.5-mile interpretive trail suitable for all mobility levels.

Dog policies vary by location. While many trails in the region are dog-friendly, some sensitive ecological areas have restrictions. For example, dogs are not permitted at the Tom McCall Preserve to protect its unique plant and animal life. Always check the specific regulations for the park or trail you plan to visit before you go.

The Dalles is located in a 'rain shadow,' making it significantly sunnier and drier than the western Gorge. This creates a unique landscape where lush forests transition to arid, grassy prairies. You'll find hikes across open plateaus, through oak savannas, and along dramatic basalt cliffs, offering a different character from the dense, waterfall-rich trails further west.

For a more strenuous outing, the Lyle Cherry Orchard Trail offers a steady climb with over 1,300 feet (400 m) of elevation gain, rewarding you with expansive views over the Columbia River. Another option is the McCall Point Trail (near Rowena Plateau), which is a steep climb to panoramic vistas of the Gorge and Cascade peaks.

Many trails provide stunning river views. The Vista Loop Trail in Columbia Hills State Park crosses open hillsides with wide-open perspectives of the river and surrounding landscape. For a lower-elevation option, the paved Riverfont Trail — The Dalles runs directly alongside the water for a more intimate view.

The trails around The Dalles are highly rated by the komoot community. Hikers often praise the region's spectacular spring wildflower displays, the wide-open vistas of the Columbia River, and the sunny, dry weather. The unique geological formations, like the basalt columns at Horsethief Butte, are also frequently mentioned as a highlight.

While the eastern Gorge is drier than the west, you can still find waterfalls. The Catherine Creek area features a lovely seasonal waterfall that is visible from the paved interpretive trail. For the classic, towering waterfalls the Gorge is famous for, you will generally need to travel further west towards areas like Hood River and Cascade Locks.

Many trails are exposed with little shade, so sun protection is essential. Be sure to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The weather can be windy, so a windbreaker or extra layer is recommended. Always carry plenty of water, as sources are scarce on the trails. Good hiking shoes are a must, as the terrain can be rocky and uneven.

Komoot features a curated selection of the top hikes in the area, but the broader region contains many more trails. The landscape offers a mix of easy riverside walks, moderate loops with some elevation, and more challenging climbs, ensuring there are options for various fitness levels.

For state parks like Columbia Hills Historical State Park, checking the official Washington State Parks website is a good idea. For the Tom McCall Preserve, you can visit The Nature Conservancy's page for alerts or closures. For other trails, recent user comments and recordings on komoot can provide up-to-date insights from fellow hikers.