The Gorge 400 Trail
The Gorge 400 Trail is a long, multi-use trail that spans a significant portion of the Columbia River Gorge. The section between Eagle Creek and Wyeth is part of the eastern end of the Gorge 400.
Here's what you should know about this section:
General Information:
- Length: The section from John Yeon State Park east to Eagle Creek Trailhead is approximately 8.2 miles long. The segment from Eagle Creek to Cascade Locks is about 2.5 miles, and then from Cascade Locks to Wyeth (which includes the area around Wyeth campground) is roughly 10 miles, but only a 3.4-mile stretch from Wyeth Campground west to Herman Creek Trail #406 is open to bikes. The total distance between Eagle Creek and Wyeth would be approximately 12.5 miles.
- Purpose: The Gorge 400 Trail is designed for both day hiking and backpacking, with parts of it "piggybacking" on other established trail systems, including the established EasyCLIMB trail and its recent expansions, the CLIMB (Cascade Locks International Mountain Bike System).
- Noise: Portions of the Gorge 400 Trail, particularly those that parallel I-84, can be noisy.
- Fees/Passes: Recreation passes may be required at various trailheads along the Gorge 400. Check the specific starting point you plan to use (e.g., Eagle Creek Recreation Area or Wyeth Campground) for current fee requirements.
Trail Conditions and Terrain:
- From John Yeon State Park (MP 15): This is a key access point. From John Yeon, the Gorge 400 Trail generally heads east.
- From John Yeon to Wahclella (MP 19.5): This 5.2-mile section is explicitly open to mountain bikes. It's described as a nice day hike for all ages, with views of basalt cliffs and wildflowers.
- From Eagle Creek to Cascade Locks (MP 22.5–25): This section heads through evergreens, often with a steady but not overly tough incline, followed by an easy descent.
- From Cascade Locks to Wyeth (MP 25–35): This part of the trail is described as having big trees, moss, and ferns, and can be quite rocky. It's generally in good shape even when other trails are muddy.
- From Wyeth Campground (around MP 35): Wyeth Campground and Trailhead is another important access point further east.
- Eagle Creek Fire Impact: The Gorge 400, especially the eastern portions, was significantly impacted by the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire. This resulted in widespread loss of trees, landslides, and increased underbrush. While some areas have been cleared, you might still encounter downed trees, especially in less-trafficked sections.
- Elevation: While specific elevation gain for the entire Eagle Creek to Wyeth section isn't readily available, the Gorge 400 overall can have significant elevation changes, particularly if you connect to other trails like the Wyeth Trail (#411) which ascends considerably.
Specific Considerations for the Eagle Creek to Wyeth Segment:
- Eagle Creek Trailhead: This is a popular starting point, but parking can be limited and fills up quickly. There are a few parking options, including a lot at the trailhead, along the road, and at the Eagle Creek Day Use Area by the salmon hatchery. A parking pass (Northwest Forest Pass or National Parks pass) is usually required.
- Wyeth Trailhead: Located on the Historic Columbia River Highway just west of Wyeth Campground. It offers parking, a water filling station, and a vault toilet. The Wyeth Trail (#411) itself begins here and connects to the Gorge 400.
- Mountain Biking: Mountain bikes are allowed on the Gorge 400 Trail from Eagle Creek to Cascade Locks (Moody Road), and then from Wyeth Campground west to Herman Creek Trail #406. Bikes are prohibited on certain sections, so it's crucial to consult signage and current trail maps for the exact allowances. For instance, the Wyeth Trail (#411) is generally closed to bikes beyond a certain point as it enters the Mark O. Hatfield Wilderness.
- Connecting Trails: The Gorge 400 Trail is not always a continuous, distinct trail. It often overlaps or "piggybacks" with other trails (like the Pacific Crest Trail) and sometimes even paved sections of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail or roads. From Wyeth, you can access the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail (paved and bike-friendly), and the Wyeth Trail (#411) which leads to other trails and lakes further into the Mount Hood National Forest. The Gorge 400 also connects with the Herman Creek Trail (#406).
- Wildlife: Keep an eye out for coho and chinook salmon spawning in Eagle Creek during the fall.