Cape Horn

After parking at the Skamania County Public Transit Park and ride, you’ll cross Salmon Falls Road to the trail head.  The first mile of the trail includes the steepest climb as it leads you under a canopy of maples.  This section can be rather muddy during the wet months- plan accordingly.  Stay to the left when you see side trails. You’ll reach the first overlook at the 1.2-mile mark. From there the trail will lead you up through several steep switchbacks before rewarding with a view of Hamilton Mountain and Beacon Rock. Continue a bit farther to see Pioneer Point. From there, the trail will level out a bit. Continue to follow left at any junctions until you reach Strunk Road (paved).  Cross the road and follow the path on the left until you reach a gravel driveway that leads you back toward the river. After approximately .2 miles, turn left at the sign for Nancy Russell Overlook. This overlook is the perfect place to stop for lunch as you soak up view of the gorge. To continue the loop, follow the trail downhill through a series of switchbacks for another 1.25 miles. The trail will take you to an underpass beneath Highway 14. Follow the trail across a creek to a four-way intersection. Continuing straight here will lead you to Cape Horn Falls. Sections of this trail are narrow and rocky- carrier is recommended for little ones that are not as sure on their feet. Continue along the path to the east and you will pop out on Cape Horn Landing Road. Follow the road uphill to another underpass that will lead you back to the trail head.