Hamilton Mountain

Starting Point: Hamilton Mountain Trailhead
Distance: 7.5 miles
Elevation: 2100 ft.
Drive Time From Portland: 1 hour

I reached to the farthest corners of my iPhone address book to find a hiking buddy for today - my only day off this week &&&& friday the 13th, but zero takers! So.. I set out on my adventure solo. I first had my heart set on Beacon Rock - because it's a very popular medium intensity hike (nothing too crazy) with a lot of switchbacks and beautiful views. 

I arrived at the trailhead and it was CLOSED. It's been closed since November 2015 due to damages from a wind storm. I considered sneaking under the ropes and heading up regardless (how bad could it be?) but remembered this hike was loaded with man-made switchbacks full of staircases and railings that might no longer be there and that's real scary. 

The closed sign said Hamilton Mountain was open for business - so I decided to give it a shot. 
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THIS IS A TOUGH HIKE! Believe me. But it's got two great waterfalls on the way to the summit, it's shaded and breezy on a hot day, and the views at the top are SO worth it. My favorite spot was this one below - it's not quite the summit but it's a beautiful viewpoint, perfect for a snack break.

Keep chugging along to the top, though. DON'T GIVE UP. There's quite a bit of brush (can we get a bikini wax up here, please?) but you can see Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Mount Saint Helens and Table Mountain from the top.  Score plus score plus score. I will proudly be scratching this hike off my ass-kicking bucket list.

Where to Sip Cider Afterwards: Thunder Island Brewing Company
This place is the BEES KNEES. The food was delicious, the cascade waterfront patio was even better. And I got a sour cherry cider which rocked my world. This is totally my new post hike hot spot!