Wildflower Hike: Memaloose Overlook Trail

This is another one of those hidden gems that few hikers know about.

Just through the trees along Interstate 84, a mysterious old gravel road rises and falls through a big leaf maple forest flitting with warblers and moths. It passes a hidden spring and vaults quickly up a 300' gain to dramatic open views of grassy meadows, basalt monoliths, and the mighty Columbia River. The wildflowers are just insane during peak years. I've also seen eagles, vultures, deer, California ground squirrels, and Lazuli Buntings.

A rock-walled viewpoint at the top provides a breathtaking view of the gorge, the trails of Catherine Creek and Coyote Wall on the Washington side, and Memaloose Island below, a Chinook burial ground.

We'll meet at my deep blue Honda CRV at the west end of the I-84 rest stop parking area and do the inclined gravel 1.4 mile round trip trail out and back very slowly, stopping often for wildflower photography and birding. We'll pause at the viewpoint for snacks and contemplation, a killer combo. Those who want more miles can continue across Highway 30 at the top to do the Memaloose Hills Trail.

This is tick and poison oak country, so spray on the DEET and keep your eyes open. I'll give you a fair run down of what to be alert for before we start and make sure to be the first one down the trail.

Please get there 15 minutes early to gear up, pay your fee, and use the restroom because we will be starting promptly on time.

Bring $10 cash, water, snacks, binoculars, camera equipment, insect repellent, opt. trekking poles, and WEATHER appropriate clothing (full sun and wind exposure at the top). Restrooms on site. Adults only, please, and no pets, thanks.