Klickitat Trail: Lyle to Fisher Hill Trestle

Klickitat Trail: Lyle to Fisher Hill Trestle is a 3.2-mile out-and-back on the old railroad grade beside the Klickitat River. Start in Lyle, follow the river north to the high Fisher Hill Trestle, then return along the same path. The 3.2 miles includes the walk back; the mapped corridor to the bridge is about 1.6 miles one way. It’s an easy way to get a clear destination and river scenery without taking on the much longer Klickitat Trail.

The path from Lyle is compact gravel, roughly 5 to 8 feet wide, and nearly flat. The view opens along the Klickitat, with whitewater and kayakers below; State Route 142 runs on the opposite bank. Hikers share the trail with cyclists and horses. The simple rail grade makes this a good choice for a relaxed walk, though you return on the same corridor. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours, including a pause at the trestle.

The trestle is the turnaround, about 1.5 to 1.6 miles from Lyle. Its deck carries the former rail line over the river canyon and makes a natural place to stop and look down for kayakers in the whitewater. The bridge stands at a traditional Native fishing site. In autumn, fishers may use long dip nets from temporary wooden scaffolds for salmon, a distinctive part of the river’s season. Some informal fishing paths nearby are steep and hazardous, so stay on the main trail.

Start at Lyle Trailhead, which has marked parking, a restroom and potable water. It’s the only ADA-accessible trailhead on the Klickitat trail, but the full route has no confirmed ADA classification. The path is described as improved for about 1.5 miles to the trestle. Lot capacity and parking fees weren’t found. No pass or permit is listed for this lower segment. Dogs must be leashed.