Cape Horn

Cape Horn delivers Columbia River Gorge views that rival anything on the Oregon side, but with a fraction of the crowds. The trail climbs through old-growth forest and along exposed basalt cliffs high above the river, reaching Nancy Russell Overlook where the entire Gorge spreads out below. Spring wildflowers carpet the rocky slopes, and Cape Horn Falls drops through a mossy slot canyon partway along the route.

The full loop crosses Highway 14 and traverses both upper cliff sections and a lower riverside stretch. From February through mid-July, the lower trail closes to protect nesting peregrine falcons, so plan on an out-and-back to the upper viewpoints during that window. Outside the closure, the complete loop adds river-level perspectives and a walk past Cigar Rock's basalt pillars.

Trail conditions vary by section. The upper route follows narrow, rocky singletrack with some exposure along cliff edges. Hiking poles help on the steeper pitches. The lower trail passes through forest on gentler terrain. Wind along the Gorge can be fierce, especially in spring and fall, so bring a layer even on sunny days.