Coyote Wall Recreation Area
A massive formation of columnar basalt, Coyote Wall is one of the Columbia River Gorge's most recognizable features from all directions. Known around the Gorge as "The Syncline", local amateur geologists enjoy debating its proper geological classification over a craft brew.
From Coyote Wall Trailhead, bikers, hikers, and riders can access a 30+ mile network trails with an open feel and breath-taking views. Trails include:
- Bitterroot Trail #4422 (Ca2)
- Coyote Wall Trail #4428 (Co1)
- Labyrinth Trail #4423 (Co7)
- Little Maui Trail #4425 (Co5)
- Little Moab Trail #4424 (Co3)
- Old Ranch Road Trail #4426 (Co4)
- Raptor Trail 4424 (Ca1)
- Upper Labyrinth Trail #4424 (Co8)
Mountain bikers love the range of mountain biking challenges which reward those who climb the trails with amazing panoramas of the Gorge! Naturalists can appreciate the diverse population of rare and sensitive plants found here. The thin, fragile soils were created by Missoula floods, and the habitat remains important for wildlife species.
Please avoid the area directly below Coyote Wall to the west, as it is private land. Trails in the area have been gradually rehabilitated in recent years according to a long-term site management plan, so user-created trails that once damaged natural resources are being decomissioned. New signs make it easy to stay on official trails, but use maps with caution as most are now out of date. (This planning map shows temporary names used during the planning process to label approved trails.) Today's signs do not match the shorthand codes, but they do make it easy to stay on official trails. Please respect signs indicating decommissioned trails and sensitive areas under restoration.
At a Glance
Fees: | No fee |
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Open Season: | Year round |
Usage: | Medium-Heavy |
Best Season: | Late winter to spring |
Busiest Season: | Spring |
Restrictions: |
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Closest Towns: |
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Water: | No |
Restroom: | Year round Vault Toilet |
Operated By: | Forest Service |
Information Center: | Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area |
General Information
Directions:Coyote Wall Trailhead:
From Bingen, WA travel east on Washington State Highway 14 approximately 3 miles to milepost 69.7, Courtney Road. The trailhead is just off the highway on the east side of Courtney road. Please park in designated parking spots only and not along Courtney Road or Highway 14.
See also: Catherine Creek Day Use Area/Trailhead
Activities
Mountain Biking
This area offers a network of 20+ miles that can be used to create a variety of routes. Entry is prohibited on private land below (west of) Coyote Wall. Note that mountain bikes are prohibited in several trails at nearby Catherine Creek. Dogs are required on leash from December 1 - June 30 in the Burdoin and Coyote Wall areas.
Status: | Open |
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Areas for Mountain Biking at Coyote Wall Recreation Area
Day Hiking
A network of 20+ miles of trail provides a variety of options for day hiking. Entry is prohibited on private land below (west of) Coyote Wall. Dogs are required on leash from December 1 - June 30 in the Burdoin and Coyote Wall areas.
Status: | Open |
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Areas for Day Hiking at Coyote Wall Recreation Area
Horse Riding
Horses are allowed from May 1 to November 30 on most trails in Coyote Wall.
Horses prohibited year round on Desert Parsley (formerly Co7), Raptor Trail (Ca1), Bitterroot (Ca2) and the nearby Catherine Creek Loop Trail (Ca4; not yet officially constructed).
Status: | Open |
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Areas for Horse Riding at Coyote Wall Recreation Area
Alerts & Warnings
- Prescribed Fire Notice for October 14, 2024
- Microwave Tower Fire Closure/Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail Reopens
- Whisky Creek Fire in Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness
- Klickitat Mile One Overnight Use & Large Boat Launch Prohibition
- Concept Development for Mosier to The Dalles Trail Underway
- Effective Jan 1, 2024-October 20, 2024: Eagle Creek Fire Closure
- Drones prohibited in wilderness and select recreation sites
- Check road and weather conditions