The Pacific Crest Trail was founded in 1926 and spans 2,650 miles from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon and Washington. It reveals the beauty of the desert, unfolds the glaciated expanses of the Sierra Nevada, travels through deep forests, and provides commanding vistas of volcanic peaks in the Cascade Range. The trail symbolizes everything there is to love— and protect— in the Western United States. Untold thousands of hikers and equestrians enjoy this international treasure each year. Some only travel a few miles, while others complete every mile in a single season. The movie, Wild, which is a story about a young woman hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, ends when Cheryl Strayed reaches the beautiful, iconic Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks, Oregon. As the PCT has gained popularity, more and more people have gotten interested in taking a day hike on the Pacific Crest Trail. Below is one of three relatively easy day hikes for those wanting to explore.
Pacific Crest Trail Day Hike/Dry Creek Falls
This easy to moderate 4.4 mile round trip hike has an elevation gain of 700-feet and takes you to a gorgeous waterfall!
Take a day hike on the PCT and tour through lush green forests to the base of 70 foot Dry Creek Falls. This popular out and back starts at the Bridge of the Gods trailhead. From the trailhead, cross the road. At Moody Street, walk uphill to the right. You’ll see the signed trail on your left. After a mile or so, you’ll come to a powerline access road. Turn right and walk a short distance. Do not cross the bridge, instead turn right toward the falls.
Getting there: Park on the south end of the Bridge of the Gods in Cascade Locks, Oregon at the rest area. The trailhead is located south of the parking area.
Note: NW Forest Pass required
For more information visit discovernw.org, click here