Hardy Ridge Loop

Hardy Ridge Loop is an 8.1-mile lollipop from the Beacon Rock State Park Equestrian Trailhead. It follows the gated gravel access road out and back, climbs East Hardy Ridge, then takes a northbound spur to Phlox Point before descending the west side. The route gains about 2,100 feet. This is a half-day climb for a rugged ridge walk and wide Columbia Gorge views, not a quick roadside stop.

Start north on the Equestrian Trail. The first stretch is an old gravel road under Douglas-fir and hemlock, passing a talus slope and a rock-reinforced stretch at an old slide. At the first main junction, note the West Hardy return, then stay on the Equestrian road for about another half mile before turning onto East Hardy. The wooded road narrows at the foot-traffic-only sign. Switchbacks climb through hemlock, sword fern and Oregon grape to the four-way ridge junction. Lower down, stay left where Bridge Trail branches off.

At the crest, turn north along a rugged, partly brushy track across open knobs and fir thickets. The ridge gives broad views toward Mount Hood, Mount Adams, Bonneville Dam and the Gorge. Phlox and beargrass grow among the rocky outcrops, with the main wildflower show from June into late July. The final approach to Phlox Point crosses loose talus. Return to the four-way junction, take the west connector, descend through brush and Douglas-fir, then turn south on West Hardy to the Equestrian road. The Phlox Point section is a spur, so walk it both ways before continuing west.

Allow about 5½ hours. The long climb and narrow, rocky upper tread make this a hard day even though the lower approach is a road. The ridge section is for hikers; dogs are allowed on leash. From SR 14 near milepost 35, drive north on Kueffler Road for about 1.1 miles, turn right, then continue 0.4 mile to the large gravel Equestrian Trailhead lot. A Discover Pass is required. The lot has a restroom and picnic tables.