2023 Hike 7 - Beacon Rock State Park

52 Hikes With Mike - Hike 7

Beacon Rock State Park - Skamania County, WA

I found a hiking group based out of Portland to join, thanks to some friends, and I went on my first outing with them to Beacon Rock State Park. The park is pretty well-known in the area, and is just north of Portland across the Columbia River.

The trail goes up and around this rock, climbing and climbing. The views from each point are amazing, or I assume, since it was a pretty gray and foggy day when I went. This hike took place back in February, and I’d say it’s challenging for anyone who isn’t used to go uphill. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of places to stop and take a “photo break” to catch your breath!

WA State Park Website: https://www.parks.wa.gov/474/Beacon-Rock

2019 #hike7 - Cedar Ridge Preserve

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Quick Stats

Date: Sunday, February 17, 2019

Location: Cedar Ridge Preserve - Dallas, TX

Distance: 4.3 miles

Trails: Cattail Pond, Cedar Brake, Fossil Valley, Escarpment, Red Oak

Miles from Home: 23

Weather: Cool, cloudy, sun peeking out eventually

Equipment: Apple Watch, iPhone

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Highlights

• Wasn’t completely overrun with people

• Perfect weather for a hike in Texas

• Improved signs and lots of trail work since my last visit

• The hills are great exercise

Low Points

• Nearby road noise is prominent throughout

• People are trashing the trails here

• People are noisy, which is a personal opinion and just me whining really

I did not want to go for a hike this morning. I mean, I went to bed thinking I did, but I woke up wanting to drink coffee and stay home. I eventually had my oatmeal, got hydrated, and set out around 9 AM which was only two hours later than I’d wanted to leave. I don’t know what happens to my motivation, but I have a feeling it’s partly due to locations available locally. Cedar Ridge Preserve was a staple in 2017 and 2018, but it really wore me down over time and I only use it as a location when I don’t have a better plan.

As I mentioned above, the trails are well maintained and great for exercise. The place is nice, it’s mostly clean, despite some trash from trashy people, and the trails are clear of any major debris. I always enjoy the trails and have a good workout because of their design; there are hills on almost every trail and they can get the heart going when you’ve leveled off from the flat areas. Most people, so it seems from basic observation, are here for exercise. People walking in pairs, families out together, and runners of all kinds fill the trails. Today, people seemed to have a problem with trail etiquette and who has the right of way up and down the hills as well as runners just doing whatever they wanted.

I did not LOVE my hike, but I still enjoyed it. I’m glad I went and got out of the house. I’m certain I’ll be a little more forward thinking for future hikes. It’s time to venture out and get adventurous again. Hello all-nighters and longs drives! Happy trails!

Before & After

#hike7 - Cedar Ridge Preserve

Date: March 1, 2018

Location: Cedar Ridge Preserve - Dallas, Texas

Distance: 4 miles

Trails: Cedar Breaks, Fossil Valley, Escarpment 

It had been 18 days since I hiked.  That is a VERY long stretch for me.  Between being sick with an upper respiratory infection, a massive work project,  and the torrential rain we received I was just unable to get out there.  BUT, Hike 7 revived my spirit.  The cedars/junipers were still wet, so the bark was dark, and it looked like a completely different forest than the one from Hike 6.  The trails were wet and muddy, but passable.  Chewy the dog and I were covered in mud after four miles, but it was worth it.  It is no surprise that getting out on the trail makes me feel invigorated and Hike 7 was no exception.  I can't wait to get out again for Hike 8 on Saturday and maybe even a Hike 9 on Sunday if there is time.  I hate being behind, but at least my excitement is renewed.  My  hope is that the weather cooperates and that you all have happy trail ahead!