The Saddle via Equestrian Trail

The Saddle via Equestrian Trail is a 7-mile out-and-back from Equestrian Trailhead to an open, rocky bench on Hamilton Mountain. The mapped line follows the uphill corridor once; the distance counts the return to the same lot. It climbs through forest above Hardy Creek, then opens onto a broad view toward Bonneville Dam and the Columbia River, with Mount Hood peeking over the ridge. Plan on a half day and a sustained climb.

Most of the approach follows a broad double-track logging road, climbing steadily in switchbacks. Douglas-fir, hemlock, maple and alder shade much of the route. Old stumps and snags remain from the 1902 Yacolt Burn; a Civilian Conservation Corps camp in the park later cut many fire-killed trees under the once-common belief that snags attracted lightning.

At about 1.2 and 1.8 miles, signed four-way junctions meet the West/Lower Hardy and East/Lower Hardy trails; continue on Equestrian. Around 2.5 miles, the trail drops to Hardy Creek, a crossing beside the Hardy Creek Trail junction and a picnic table. Another junction follows shortly. The final long switchback steepens over larger rocks. Don's Cutoff branches off as an alternate return; continue on Equestrian to reach the Saddle on this 7-mile route.

The destination is a broad, fairly level, rocky opening rather than a summit. It makes a good lunch stop, with Bonneville Dam and the Columbia far below and Mount Hood beyond Hamilton Mountain. Spring brings phlox, glacier lily, larkspur and Columbia lewisia to the open saddle. A separate Hamilton Mountain summit extension adds about 1.7 miles round trip; it is not part of this trail.

Allow roughly 4 to 5 hours for the distance and climb. The trail is shared with horses and mountain bikes, and the creek crossings and network of signed junctions call for attention. From Highway 14, follow the signed narrow gravel road about 0.3 mile to the Equestrian Trailhead lot; there is a picnic area and a toilet at the trailhead. A Discover Pass is required. Dogs are allowed on leash. No food seller or potable-water source was identified along the route.