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Details

Please read all information in this About section. Luck favors the prepared. We will begin hiking at 10:10 am and be back to the vehicles by 3:00 pm.

Hike Type: Ultra-light fast loop hike for exercise
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation gain: 1400 feet
Hiking Speed: 2.0 mph avg (incl. short stops, snack/pics while moving)
Difficulty: Moderate
Parking: No permits needed

Safety: The trail is difficult and even more challenging in the rain. It is rocky, unimproved and slippery in sections with possible downed trees to negotiate and running water on the trail. This hike is not appropriate for beginner hikers, hikers prone to ankle/knee injury or hikers who only hike on improved trails.

What to bring:

  • Sturdy hiking boots/shoes
  • Backpack with first aid kit
  • Warm layers/rain jacket (maybe)
  • Trekking poles (optional)
  • Water (at least 0.5 L), snacks
  • Flashlight/headlamp

For planning and comfort the nearest pit toilets are at Salmon Creek Park and Ride: https://maps.app.goo.gl/EHtQMDUke2eWhtwL7

No carpool planned. Individuals can request/plan carpool rides in the comment section. Plan pick-up so that you can be at the trailhead by 10am.

Cape Horn Loop Trail on AllTrails
https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/washington/cape-horn-loop-trail?sh=dfo3rj

https://www.oregonhikers.org/field_guide/Cape_Horn_Loop_Hike

We stay together as a group. Please do not sign up for this hike if you don't want to slow down or physically can't maintain the group pace of 2 mph. We will return to the start point parking lot no later than 3 pm.

Get food/drink with the group after the hike at Trap Door Brewery in Washougal to relax and chat (optional).

The Cape Horn Trail is one of the closest Columbia River Gorge trails to the Portland-Vancouver metropolitan area. It features wide-ranging views up and down the river, rocky cliffs and crags, streams and a waterfall. The route is well signed and includes scenic overlooks.

Note that the loop is only possible between July 16th and January 31st in order to protect nesting peregrine falcons on the basalt cliffs of Cape Horn.

• Always a good practice to be equipped with The 10 essentials during hikes: navigation, illumination, sun protection, first aid kit, repair kit/multi-tool, emergency shelter, extra water, food, fire starter and extra clothing layers.
Here is the link.
https://files.meetup.com/76645/The%20Ten%20Essentials.pdf

Disclaimer: Hike leaders are volunteers and do their best to make it an enjoyable experience for everyone, but assume no liability for any loss, damage or injury, during the event or getting to/return from the event. Each member is required to read and approve the waiver when agreeing to become member and are completely responsible for their own safety and well-being.

Link to liability waiver below:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1e9K3R6KkepF8BFHmLdcTnPzou42_x2DEu38XqzlGfJ8/edit?usp=sharing

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