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Klickitat Trail
This Rails-to-Trails conversion follows an old railroad grade through the spectacular Klickitat Canyon along the Klickitat River. The trail is a wide (12 feet in most places) pathway ideal for mountain bikes, horseback riding and family strolls. The lowermost 10.8 miles of the Klickitat River, from Wheeler Creek to the confluence with Columbia River, are designated as a Wild & Scenic River.
See bald eagles, water fowl, scenic pine/oak forests and an amazing display of spring wildflowers. The Swale Canyon portion of the trail is usually closed from June-October due to fire danger.
Select image to view a downloadable vicinity map.
The trail begins at the Lyle Trailhead off Washington SR-14 near Lyle, WA and goes through Klickitat, WA. It continues another 18 miles to near Centerville, WA on State Parks jurisdiction.
For more information, visit the Klickitat Trail Conservancy website.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | Open for day use only. |
|---|---|
| Fees: | No fee |
| Open Season: | Year-round |
| Usage: | Light-Medium |
| Restrictions: | Motor vehicles are prohibited. Fires not allowed within 200 feet of trail. Must stay on trail except at designated spots. |
| Closest Towns: | Lyle, WA; White Salmon, WA |
| Water: | No Potable Water |
| Restroom: | Flush toilets available spring-fall. Portable toilet on site in the winter. |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:From Bingen/White Salmon, WA travel east on Washington State Highway approximately 9.5 miles. Take the first left after crossing the Wild and Scenic Klickitat River on to State Rout 142 then in 1/10 mile take the first left into the trailhead parking area.
From The Dalles, OR travel north on US Highway 197 to Washington State Highway 14. Turn left onto Highway 14 and travel approximately 7.5 miles to Lyle. Travel through town and take a right on State Highway 142, just before crossing the Klickitat River. Take the first left into the trailhead parking area.
General Notes:
Take plenty of water as there is no potable water available along the trail.
Parking:
There is parking for cars and trailers.
Accessibility:
See more at 3:24
Activities
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking along wild and scenic river
River and Stream Fishing
Many spots are available for fishing along the Scenic Klickitat River.
Day Hiking
Hiking part of this Scenic Trail would make a wonderful day hike.
Areas for Day Hiking at Klickitat Trail
Horse Riding
With many Scenic Views the Klickitat Rail Trail would make a wonderful Horse Ride.
Viewing Wildlife
It provides great bird watching opportunities. You may see bald eagles and great blue herons.
Viewing Plants
This is a great place to view wildflowers in the spring.
Viewing Scenery
Scenery highlights carved gorges, geologic formations, wildflowers in the spring and early summer, and several forest types.
Alerts & Warnings
- Pile Burning in Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
- Microwave Tower Fire Closure/Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Reopens
- Klickitat Mile One Overnight Use & Large Boat Launch Prohibition
- Concept Development for Mosier to The Dalles Trail Underway
- Drones prohibited in wilderness and select recreation sites
- Check road and weather conditions
Related Information
Highlights
Location