Join the Friends of the Columbia Gorge for this 2 part outing:

Part 1: The beginning part of this outing will be a short but steep and strenuous hike for experienced hikers to the summit of Mitchell Point. Hike Difficulty level - PART ONE: Strenuous: 2.2 miles | 900-feet elev. Gain

Part 2: is an easy walk through the Mitchell Point Tunnel and along the Pipeline Trail. Walk Difficulty level - PART TWO: Easy: 3 miles

Before you register:

• Read our Liability Waiver. You will be asked to check a box acknowledging you read the waiver during registration._

• Confirm your availability. Due to limited spots, and to be respectful of everyone's time, please only register for this event if you can commit to attending.

Outing Description

Join hike leader Steve Carples for a two-part hike & walk through history with beautiful river views. During this experience, we will learn about the Mitchell Point Tunnel and Hood River valley water system.

First part - Hard hike to Summit of Mitchell Point

Steve will lead a short but strenuous hike FOR EXPERIENCED HIKERS ONLY to the summit of Mitchell Point to enjoy 210 degree panoramic views of the Gorge. Please note that this hike is very steep (climbing 900 feet over 1.1 miles), crosses three scree fields with loose rock and then climbs an exposed ridgeline with significant drops on both sides. This part of the experience is difficult, so only those with experience hiking these conditions should consider doing this!

Second part - Easy Walk Through the Mitchell Point Tunnel and Along the Pipeline Trail

Those who only want to join for the easy walk will join the group at 11:15 AM to walk along the rebuilt section of the Columbia River Historic Highway through the new Mitchell Point Tunnel.** We will discuss the history of the first scenic highway in America and enjoy a picnic lunch along the way. Afterwards, we will caravan by cars to Hood River to walk the Pipeline Trail (3 miles in and out) and learn about the history of the Hood River water system. Both of these fairly flat walks provide beautiful river views.

What you can expect on this guided outing: To learn a bit of history about the Hood River area and enjoy camaraderie while walking and enjoying beautiful river views.

Hazards:

• The hike to the summit of Mitchell Point is very steep, crosses three lengthy scree fields with loose rock and traverses an exposed ridgeline to the top with severe drops on both sides. Hiking poles are recommended for this portion of the experience. There are no hazards on the walking parts of the experience, but the 1 mile of the Pipeline Trail is on a narrow metal grate path sitting on the old pipeline.

What to Bring:

• Lunch, snacks, and plenty of water (1 liter for every two hours)

• 10+ Essentials in backpack

• Insect repellent (bug spray)

• Gaiters for tick protection

• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Hiking poles (if you need assistance in uneven terrain)

What to Wear:

• Sturdy, closed-toe shoes, sneakers, or boots.

• Long durable pants to protect from poison oak

• Dress for weather: extra layers of clothing for protection against wet or cold weather. Be ready to shed layers in hot temperatures.

Schedule:

FIRST PART OF EVENT:

• 9:00 a.m. - HARD HIKE ONLY: Meet at the Mitchell Point trailhead for strenuous hike to the summit;

• 11:15 a.m. - EASY WALK ONLY: Meet at the Mitchell Point trailhead for easy walk through the tunnels;

• 3:00 p.m. - Outing concludes back at the trailhead.

Fee: There is no fee.

Restrooms: Restrooms found at the parking lot.

Property: Oregon Department of Transportation

Photo: Lisa Ensele.

Accessibility

Have accessibility questions? Reply to your registration email to confirm your requirements or request more information.