HIKE - DOG MOUNTAIN | MAY

Trail Stats:

• Distance: 7.4 miles

• Elevation Gain: 2,800 feet

• Total Calorie Burn: 500-700 calories (depending on pace)

What to Pack:
Bring your water, snacks, and essentials for the day. Good comfortable hiking sneaker or tennis shoes with grip are key, and don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for sun protection. Layering is a must, as the weather can change quickly. A camera or phone for those breathtaking views is highly encouraged!

Why Dog Mountain is a Scientific Natural Wonder:
Dog Mountain is more than just a challenging hike—it’s a unique ecological gem of the Pacific Northwest. Nestled in the Columbia River Gorge, this trail is home to an incredible variety of species, from wildflowers that blanket the hillsides to towering trees and diverse wildlife that call this area home. Here's a taste of what you might encounter as you ascend the trail:

Wildflowers:

• Balsamroot: Bright yellow flowers that are a hallmark of spring in the Gorge.

• Indian Paintbrush: Their vivid red and orange petals add splashes of color to the meadows.

• Lupine: With its tall, spiky clusters of purple and blue flowers, lupine thrives here in the spring.

• Pussytoes: Small, fuzzy white flowers that often grow among the grasses.

• Columbine: Delicate, bell-shaped blooms with soft blue, yellow, or red hues.

• Trillium: A signature woodland wildflower with three-petaled blooms that range from white to deep purple.

• Mertensia (Virginia Bluebells): These striking, blue blooms appear early in the spring and add a soft, ethereal touch to the landscape.

Trees and Vegetation:

• Douglas Fir: Towering giants that dominate the forested sections of the trail.

• Western Red Cedar: Known for its rich, reddish-brown bark and fragrant wood, this tree thrives in the moist, temperate environment of the Gorge.

• Ponderosa Pine: A hardy species that adds a rugged beauty to the landscape.

• Bigleaf Maple: You’ll notice their broad, wide leaves, especially in the shadier spots of the trail.

• Oregon Ash: Found in wetter areas, these trees thrive along the lower sections of the trail.

Wildlife:

• Black Bears: While elusive, black bears inhabit the forested areas around Dog Mountain, particularly in spring and summer.

• Bald Eagles: Often spotted soaring high above the Gorge, these majestic birds are a true symbol of wilderness.

• Coyotes: Occasionally heard howling in the distance, coyotes are active in the area, often at dusk.

• Deer (Mule and Black-Tailed): Often spotted grazing in meadows or quietly making their way through the forest.

• Red-Tailed Hawks: Commonly seen gliding over the meadows, these raptors are a staple of the landscape.

• Western Gray Squirrels: These cute and curious creatures can often be seen scurrying around the trail, collecting acorns and enjoying the abundant food supply.

• Marmots: These large rodents love the rocky outcrops and are often spotted sunning themselves on warm days.

• Varied Thrushes: These beautiful birds are a signature of Pacific Northwest woodlands, their haunting calls echoing through the trees.

Dog Mountain is a biological wonder, rich in biodiversity. As you walk this iconic trail, you’ll not only experience stunning vistas but also witness firsthand the delicate ecosystems that thrive in this unique habitat. It’s a place where every step connects you deeper to nature’s marvels.