3.2 km away
Syncline Trails: Big Loop
A respectable hike that makes the most of the best trails in the Syncline network.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 11 km
- Ascent
- 551 m
- Descent
- 551 m
Arches are rare in this area of the nation, making Catherine Creek Arch a highly attractive destination.
Hiking Easy
The Catherine Creek area provides the opportunity to complete several beautiful hikes. The short loop hike shown here leads to the Catherine Creek Arch, which stands apart from a cliff face on top of a talus slope.
The hike to get there is relatively moderate—most people will be able to reach the arch with no problem. Completing the loop as mapped requires a bit more climbing than a simple out-and-back to the arch, but it's a rewarding loop that offers a variety of views. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of Mount Hood towering above the Columbia River Gorge.
Along the way to the arch, you'll pass an abandoned corral and a few collapsed buildings, which are remnants of the cattle ranch that used to cover this land.
During the right time of year, you can also enjoy spectacular wildflowers along this hike. "No place in the Columbia Gorge offers the spring wildflower diversity and duration of Catherine Creek," writes GorgeFriends.org. For that alone, Catherine Creek is exceedingly popular.
Sources: GorgeFriends.org OregonHikers.org
Easy
Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.
3.2 km away
A respectable hike that makes the most of the best trails in the Syncline network.
Difficult Hiking
3.2 km away
A short, popular loop hitting the best goods in the Syncline area.
Difficult Hiking
4 routes · Mountain Biking · Hiking
10 routes · Hiking