22K, 410x225.
A 0.3 mile walk west along a preserved section of the old Columbia River
Highway leads to the powerline access trail.
19K, 320x220
Cryptic signs
direct the hiker to visit a variety of powerline towers.
Steep switchbacks, then a turn to the east leads to tower 16-1.
The remaining towers are visited by backtracking and proceeding west.
44K, 320x240.
The trail climbs in steep switchbacks that appear maintained or are at least
moderately traveled. There is seemingly something for everyone on this hike.
30K, 400x570.
An eastern spur trail climbs to a tower with great views both east
and west along the gorge.
The Viento interchange and starting point for the hike
can be seen far below just to the east.
9K, 320x240.
Backtracking and proceeding west, the hike passes further towers,
arriving at a high point about 1200 ft above the river.
19K, 360x270.
One of the great views of the Gorge to
the west. The conical profile of Wind Mt. on the Washington side
of the river remains a prominent landmark throughout the hike.
19K, 760x275.
As daylight seems to fade, the highest tower has arguably the
most comprehensive view of the Columbia River to the west.
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At the last tower a surprisingly indistinct trail drops rapidly, reaching the Old Highway just east of Starvation Creek Falls (40K, 420x1050). |
 |
22K, 320x240.
The last segment of the journey is an easy 1.3 mile walk back
along the Old Columbia River Highway, now open only to foot and bicycle
traffic in this area.
At one point, a sign directs people by a rockfall and debris flow retaining wall.
38K, 320x240.
A quarter mile from the parking area, mile post 58 of the
Old Highway is passed once again on the upslope side. (For
comparison, mile post 24 is found near Crown Point.)
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