Length: 5 miles round trip Elevation Change: 1138' gain Season: Late Spring thru Fall Difficulty: Moderate Permit: NW Forest Pass Required Features:
The southern approach to Mt Defiance is quite simple compared to the grueling climb
out of the Columbia River Gorge on the north approach. From the trail head it is a
short half mile walk through dense forest to the junction to beautiful Bear Lake.
From there on the trail begins to climb more aggressively and soon you begin to
enjoy breaks in the dense forest and views of the gorge and mountains to the north.
At about two miles the trail junctions with the loop on which you can return if you
decide to go completely around Mt Defiance. The trail gets steep yet and more exposed.
At the top you are greeted by a huge complex of microwave antennae and relay systems.
Walk pass the structures and follow the road a short distance downhill where you will
see the trail continuing its trek down the northeast side of the mountain. Keep alert
for the return trail on your left which will take you back up and around the west side
to meet up at the junction you saw earlier on your hike. This round the mountain hike
is exceptional in its view and seasonal wildflowers. Return by the same trail you came
on once you reach the junction.
