The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail from the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead in Cascade Locks offers a scenic and accessible paved pathway for walking and biking, providing stunning views of the Columbia River, the iconic Bridge of the Gods, and the surrounding Gorge landscape. This section of the State Trail allows users to explore the natural beauty and historical significance of the area, often connecting to other local trails and offering a convenient starting point for enjoying the waterfront and the town of Cascade Locks. It's a popular spot for both leisurely strolls and longer rides, providing a car-free way to experience the grandeur of the Columbia River Gorge.. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect:

The Trail Segment:

• Bonneville Segment: The Bridge of the Gods Trailhead in Cascade Locks marks the eastern end of the 5.5-mile Bonneville Segment of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. This paved multi-use path connects to the John B. Yeon trailhead to the west.
• Scenic Beauty: The trail is renowned for its spectacular views of the Columbia River Gorge, including towering cliffs, lush forests, and panoramic vistas of the river. You'll pass by charming waterfalls and historic features.
• Historic Significance: This trail follows portions of the original Historic Columbia River Highway, a marvel of early 20th-century engineering designed to showcase the natural beauty of the Gorge. You'll encounter restored historic bridges, tunnels, guardrails, and beautifully arched rock masonry walls.

Key Features and Highlights from the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead (going west):

• Ruckel Creek and Small Waterfall: Within the first mile, you'll pass Ruckel Creek and a charming small waterfall.
• Eagle Creek Trailhead and Fish Hatchery: The trail leads to the Eagle Creek Trailhead and the Cascade Fish Hatchery, where you can often see Chinook and coho salmon spawning in the fall.
• Staircase with Bike Wheel Grooves: Just west of the Eagle Creek Day-use Area, there's a 40-foot tall staircase equipped with bike wheel grooves, allowing you to push your bike up or down.
• Tooth Rock: The trail scales Tooth Rock, offering more views.
• Bonneville Dam Views: You'll get spectacular views of the Bonneville Dam as you travel along the river.
• Moffett Creek Bridge: The trail continues to the historic Moffett Creek Bridge.
• Forested Areas: You'll ride through forested sections, where some damage from the Eagle Creek Fire may still be apparent.
• Intersecting Trails: Several U.S. Forest Service trails, including the Pacific Crest Trail, intersect this segment.

Things to Know Before You Go:

• Parking: Free parking is available at the small parking area near the Bridge of the Gods entrance, beneath the bridge.
• Accessibility: The trail is generally accessible, but be aware of the 40-foot staircase at Eagle Creek.
• E-bikes: E-bikes are allowed on the state trail.
• Prohibited Devices: Electric scooters, mountain boards, electric unicycles, and other similar devices are not allowed.
• Dogs: Dogs are permitted on the trail but must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet at all times.
• Safety: Steep areas along the trail are prone to slides during wet weather, so be careful and alert.
• Permits: A day-use parking permit is often required at Oregon State Parks. While parking at the Bridge of the Gods Trailhead is mentioned as free in some sources, it's always good to check for current requirements. Some associated Forest Service trailheads (like Eagle Creek) may require a Northwest Forest Pass.
• Disconnect Sections: The Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail is composed of disconnected paved segments. While the Bridge of the Gods trailhead is a great starting point for one segment, the entire "highway" isn't a continuous bike path. You may have to share the road with cars on some sections between designated trail segments.
• Crowds: This area is very popular, especially on weekends and in summer/fall. Consider visiting on weekdays or earlier in the morning to avoid crowds.