BEACON ROCK STATE PARK; 10KM, Rated 4; 5KM, Rated 4
Beacon Rock is an ancient volcanic plug and one of the most
prominent landmarks in the Columbia River Gorge. We walked around Riddle (Ry-del) Lake, behind the rock on a
secluded, fairly level (but rough) nature path. Then climb this 848-foot
monolith next to Highway 14. Across the highway, finish on the trail leading to beautiful Hardy Falls
with thick
forest cover: it's one of the most popular attractions in the Gorge.
Lewis & Clark Trail Program
The Corps of Discovery first detected tidal influences of the
Pacific Ocean at this point. Captain Clark referred to Beacon Rock in his
journal as “Beaten” rock.
Picture credits: those
beginning with jb are by Jan Breneman;
jj is Jan Johnston; otherwise they're by Carol Reed