Hamilton Mountain – Beacon Rock State Park, Washington – Moquistang; one little mustang who does it all.

Hamilton Mountain – Beacon Rock State Park, Washington

Oct 23, 2025

Submitted by Tess Buchannan

Located on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic area, the Hamilton Mountain loop provides views, spring wildflowers and a steep but short trek to the top. Nearby camping is available at Beacon Rock State Park or haul out for a day ride since its less than an hour from Portland metro area. This has potential for great wet season riding! We rode in October. Bring warm layers and a lunch to eat at the summit!

Trail Stats:

9.1 miles lollypop loop
Elevation Gain: 1,855 feet
Elevation Loss: 1,592 feet
Max Elevation: 2,310 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
↗ What does this mean?
Footing: Some rocky sections, otherwise dirt trail or old service roads.
Hoof Protection: Hoof protection recommended

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Facilities: The equestrian trailhead is approximately 1.5 miles up Kueffler Road north from the Beacon Rock State Park Headquarters – this is the ONLY place within the park where trailers are allowed. The road is very steep and very narrow; ensure your truck has the pulling power to make it. Some people recommend 4×4 to haul up the hill.

The park has a horse camp with a highline that can fit three horses, plus parking for two trailers. There is a vault toilet and manure bins. During warmer months, there is stock water. Parking is sometimes taken by day-use hikers.

Water Sources: Seasonal stock water from Beacon Rock State Park equestrian campground.

Trail Info: From the campsite, follow the Equestrian Trail, in .57 miles reach the intersection with East Hardy and Loop Trail, keep straight. The trail descends then crosses over Hardy Creek at .65 miles (with a bridge), this is also the intersection with Hardy Creek Trail (hiker only). The trail ascends almost immediately, crossing an intersection with Upper Hardy Trail, stay to the right here. Steadily climb nearly a mile passing the junction with Don’s Cutoff Trail (hiker only) reaching the Saddle at 2100 feet.

The views here are spectacular and expansive of the Columbia River Gorge, Bonneville Dam, surrounding Cascade Mountains, Beacon Rock, Table Mountain, and Hardy Ridge. The Saddle is the terminus of the Equestrian Trail, intersecting with Upper Hardy Trails and the Hamilton Mountain Trail (hiker only).

Trail Challenges: There is a bridge to cross very early in the ride; it is quite long. Much of this trail is phenomenally steep and left experienced trail horses drenched in sweat. Lots of hikers and several dog walkers as well. Trails that are off limits to equestrians are not well marked. Our truck did get stuck getting in to the campground area.

Permits: Discover Pass

Backcountry Sites: None, not suitable for overnight backcountry use.

Cell Service: Cell service was available on the trail with Verizon; very limited in the parking area.

Fuel: Chevron – 51 Cascade Dr, North Bonneville, WA 98639

GPX File: WHT: Hamilton Mountain

Directions: From Vancouver, drive east on SR 14 for 35 miles to Beacon Rock State Park. Just before the Ranger Station, turn left on Kueffler Road and drive 1 mile. Turn right on a gravel road with a small sign marked “Equestrian Trailhead.” Proceed for 0.3 mile on this narrow road to a large parking area, picnic area and equestrian campground.

Map: