Early Wildflower Hike: Catherine Creek, WA

Ready for some early spring pretties? The Catherine Creek Universal Access Trail is, hands down, one of the highest rated wildflower spots in the gorge.

A winding, paved route takes you on a tour of varied terrains along the sunny Washington side of the Columbia River. Black Oak and Ponderosa pine decorate basalt outcroppings where California Ground Squirrels bask in the sun like furry logs. Grassy slopes and little drainages are packed with over 90 varieties of wildflowers throughout the growing season. Mock orange and wild rose bushes collect colorful birds like Varied Thrush, Lazuli Bunting, and Lewis's woodpecker, not to mention sundry raptors--I've seen Golden Eagles!

The panoramic view of the Columbia River is jaw-dropping and Mt. Hood is prominent. Catherine Creek Falls is frothy in spring and frogs are usually in chorus. The air smells perfumed, like an exotic blend of sweat pea and freshly mown hay. This is the kind of place you want to just sit and linger.

We'll meet at my deep blue CRV in the parking area and then slowly walk the 1.5 mi. paved trail loop. There are a few benches at viewpoints and if conditions are favorable, we will pause for 10 minutes to soak up the ambience. Sections of the trail are on the steep side but we will be stopping often for wildflower/bird/wildlife photography and ID. The earliest blooms of the season and the first species of the spring bird migration are showing up, already.

Hood River Bridge Toll: The bridge is now fully electronic. Either sign up for BreezeBy and put a transponder on your car, or simply drive across the bridge and then go to this site to pay online within 14 days. Wait longer than that, and they'll tack on a fee. Toll rates here.

Bring $10 (cash only), water, snacks, binoculars, camera equipment, and WEATHER appropriate clothing (full sun and wind exposure). Restroom facility on site. Adults only, please, and no pets, thanks.