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Mosier Plateau Hiking
By Kelsey Samsel | Hiking
If you love wildflowers and want to see stunning views of the Columbia River Gorge, hop in your car and head to the little town of Mosier. About eight miles past Hood River, Mosier may be small but it is surrounded by beauty. The best time to see wildflowers is from March through May with mid-April being the peak viewing time.
Once you arrive in Mosier, you don’t have to drive very far before you come to a flower garden with a totem pole and a wooden arch. There is a gravel parking lot just past the garden with free parking.
It’s worth it to walk through the flower garden and, if you brought a sack lunch, there are a couple picnic table where you can enjoy your lunch. There’s also an outhouse available to the public.
From the flower garden you can walk a short distance to the Mosier Cemetery entrance. You will walk up a short hill and through a small cemetery and then continue on the trail.
Not too far down the trail, you will come to a 100-foot waterfall which you can climb down to if you are careful. At the bottom there’s a clean, clear swimming hole that’s great to visit in the summer.
From the waterfall, hike up to the top where you will see panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and over 30 different species of wildflowers in the spring. After your hike, you can make your way back to your car by returning the way you came.
Type of Trail: Loop out and back.Length: About 3-3.5 miles depending on how much you explore.Difficulty: Moderate but family-friendly.Extra Details: Be aware that there is poison oak in this area. Stay on the designated trail to avoid it.
The trail is dog-friendly (as long as they are on a leash) but don’t forget to check your pet for ticks afterwards.
You do not need a Trailhead Pass for this hike. Check out this post from Friends of the Columbia River Gorge for more information about this trail.
Driving Directions: From I-84, take Exit #69/Mosier. Follow the Historic Columbia River Highway into town. Pull into the parking area just past the Mosier totem pole located mid-town on left/north side of road. Park between Hwy 30 and the railroad tracks. There will be a sign directing you to the trailhead. There is an outhouse close to the totem pole. Do not park at the Mosier Senior Center – your vehicle will be towed.
Once you are finished hiking, head back to Hood River to eat. Some of our favorite spots are:
Check out our list of Columbia Gorge hikes that are still open after the Eagle Creek fires.