Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Getting a nice view in the Columbia River Gorge usually requires a hike along one of the many winding trails that run through one of Oregon's best natural wonders. But one hike on the Washington side of the river makes incredible views accessible to all – including those for whom dirt trails are a challenge.



The Catherine Creek Trail near White Salmon in Washington is a one-mile paved pathway that's designed with hikers who use wheelchairs or walkers in mind, opening up a gorgeous slice of Pacific Northwest paradise.



The universal access hike offers views of the Columbia River and Mount Hood as it gently winds down a grassy slope. In early spring, the trail is home to colorful wildflower blooms, including purple grass widows, blue camas and white cluster lilies. The trail is also popular among bird watchers looking for western meadowlarks, northern flickers and Nashville warblers.



With wide, smooth trails it's a great resource for everyone, especially hikers with disabilities who can't always access more common dirt and gravel trails in the area.

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Managed by the U.S. Forest Service, the loop trail begins at the Catherine Creek Trailhead, which also offers access to dirt trails leading up to meadows and cliffs higher in the hills. The parking area is a gravel pull-out off the side of Old Highway 8, but there's space beside the universal access trail for cars to stop and drop people off closer to the pavement. There are two portable toilets at the start of the trail, including one that's wheelchair accessible.



Several benches along the pathway offer opportunity for a rest, each one situated in a different beautiful setting: one is in the shade of a small forest, another is near Catherine Creek Falls and several are in view of Mount Hood.



To get to the Catherine Creek Trail from Portland, take Interstate 84 east to exit 64 for the Hood River Bridge (toll is $2 each way). Continue east on Washington State Route 14 for 5.8 miles, then turn left onto Old Highway 8. In 1.5 miles the trailhead will be on the right, with parking on the left side of the road.

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--Jamie Hale | jhale@oregonian.com | @HaleJamesB

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

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Jamie Hale/The Oregonian