Aldrich Butte Trail

Aldrich Butte Trail is a 3.5-mile out-and-back from Bonneville Hot Springs Trailhead to the summit clearing, with about 1,095 feet of climbing. Allow roughly 2.5–3 hours. It suits hikers after a wooded climb with a Columbia River Gorge payoff; the mileage is short, but the ascent and uneven tread make it a real workout.

From the resort's back parking area, cross a plank bridge and climb through alder, fir, vine maple, cobbles and small logs. Wet-season mud is common. Plank and log bridges cross small streams and Carpenters Creek; a duckweed pond and seasonal pool sit beside the path. An opening at Carpenters Meadow looks toward Sacaquawea and Papoose Rocks and Table Mountain. Turn right when the trail reaches Aldrich Butte Road. At Carpenters Lake, stay left past the Two Chiefs Trail branch, then keep left again at the Table Mountain junction for Aldrich Butte; the other branch climbs toward the Pacific Crest Trail and Table Mountain.

The old road climbs through hemlock and Douglas-fir to a clearing with a concrete marker, stonework and garage foundation from the World War II aircraft-warning station built to protect Bonneville Dam. The true summit lies just west of the clearing. For the broad Gorge view, step out to the steep, open south-facing meadow; the view west is blocked. Hiker parking is on resort property. Public day passes are offered, but the resort asks hikers to check with the front desk about availability and details before arriving.