Dog Mountain Trailhead

Dog Mountain Trailhead is the access point for two of the most scenic trails in the Gorge, Dog Mountain Trail #147 and Augspurger Trail #4407. These two trails form a popular loop hike, if you connect via the 1.5 mile Dog-Augspurger Tie Trail. The area is most popular for its spring-blooming yellow balsamroot meadows, which occur at its upper meadows. Look for other wildflowers, such as white phantom orchids, Indian paintbrush, chocolate lily and purple lupine that add color to the mix. During the peak spring wildflower season, each hiker on the Dog Mountain Trail System must carry a permit on Saturdays, Sundays and Memorial Day from mid-April through mid-June June. Get Your Permit early on recreation.gov. Dog Mountain Trail is one of the most strenuous hikes in the Gorge due to its unrelenting, steep climb. It passes through a stand of Douglas-fir, with an understory carpet of Oregon grape. Those who choose to loop around via Augspurger Trail will not be disappointed by glimpses of the Columbia River meandering around Wind Mountain towards the western Gorge. Be prepared for potentially dramatic weather changes as you approach the summit. The Dog Mountain fee site includes a gravel parking area, picnic table and vault toilet at the trailhead. For your safety, please remember that parking along Washington State Route 14 (SR-14) to access the Dog Mountain Trailhead is illegal and visitors who park illegally may be fined and towed. Walking along the railroad tracks is both dangerous and illegal. Park safely in a designated parking spot located in the parking area and allow room for emergency vehicle and transit access. Consider treating yourself to this hike on a weekday, as the lot tends to be full before 10 a.m. on weekends from late April - mid June.