3.3 hr
Overview
The Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge lies at the western boundary of Washington's Columbia River Gorge . This walk along the flood-control levee takes in views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood as well as Reed Island, Silver Star Mountain , and also Devils Rest and Larch Mountain in the Oregon Columbia River Gorge . There's a diversion to Cottonwood Beach , a campsite for the Lewis and Clark Expedition, with interpretive signs giving details. The dike trail connects with the Steigerwald Lake Refuge Loop Hike and ends at the refuge's east boundary after passing through evidence of the massive restoration project that took place from 2019 to 2022. Watch for wildlife in the early morning and twilight hours. Raptors hunt rodents in the fields, songbirds flit through the cottonwoods and willows, beaver are active along the Columbia shore, and there is a good chance of seeing coyote and deer. Bicycles are allowed along the dike and, unusually for a wildlife refuge, dogs are permitted on leash on the dike itself (but not on other refuge trails).
Trail Stats
13.2 km
9 m
6 m
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Photos
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