Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail (#4400)

Area Status: Open

The accessible, paved, Catherine Creek Interpretive Trail is located in the east end of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Catherine Creek is an area of unique natural beauty and is of great botanical significance and is included in the Washington Audubon's Great Birdwatching Trail.

Weather on this south-facing drainage is much sunnier and drier than the Western Gorge, and can be quite windy. Dress appropriately and be aware that there is no potable water available. The trail offers two levels of difficulty. A short 1/4 mile route is relatively flat and will take you to a viewpoint overlooking Catherine Creek Falls. Another loop route is narrower and forms loop opportunities of up to 1-1/4 miles in length through open grass lands, vernal ponds and oak woodlands.

At a Glance

Fees:	No Fee
Open Season:	Year-round
Usage:	Medium
Restrictions:	Motor vehicles are prohibited. Fires not allowed within 200 feet of trail. Bikes are prohibited. Horses are prohibited. Dogs must be on leash year round.
Closest Towns:	Bingen, WA; Lyle, WA
Restroom:	Yes, Mid January - early June accessible portable toilet at trailhead.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area

General Information

Directions:

From Bingen, WA: Travel east on Washington State Highway 14 approximately 4.6 miles to mile post 71 and the junction with County Road 1230 on the left. Turn left onto County Road 1230 at Rowland Lake and follow it 1.4 miles to the Catherine Creek trailhead parking lot on the north side of the road.

From Lyle, WA: Travel west on Washington State Highway 14 approximately 1/4 mile and take a right onto Old Highway 8 (County Road 1230). It is an immediate right after crossing the Klickitat River. Follow Old Highway 8 for approximately 4.8 miles to the Catherine Creek trailhead parking lot on the north side of the road.

Activities

Day Hiking

This short trail is great for families interested in seeing aspects of the drier, eastern portion of the Gorge. Carry lots of water...it can get hot!

Viewing Plants

Over ninety species of wildflowers can be found in the area from grass widow which blankets the ground as early as February to western ladies tresses that may bloom into July.