Vista Point Trail #419

Vista Point Trail #419 is a 0.8-mile point-to-point connector between two junctions on Wahkeena Trail #420, running west from the high eastern junction near Devil’s Rest to the junction by Fairy Falls. It trades a stop at Wahkeena Spring for an elevated Columbia River view. Allow about 30 minutes for #419 itself; walking in from the road and arranging a return add mileage.

The tread is a narrow dirt doubletrack softened by pine needles, with occasional roots and rocks. Westbound is a quick descent; going the other way makes the short route a stiff climb. Near its northern tip, about halfway along, the grade levels at a short spur on the right. That is the easiest place to see the river, though summer leaves can screen it. Look up the slope for reminders of the 2017 Eagle Creek Fire.

Start on Wahkeena Trail about 100 feet west of Devil’s Rest Trail #420C’s first switchback. The road access is Wahkeena Falls Day Use / Trailhead; follow #420 uphill, since neither #419 junction is drive-up. The west end rejoins #420 beside Fairy Falls, so plan a longer loop or return on Wahkeena. There is a narrow, unbridged creek crossing at the Fairy Falls end; wet rocks are slippery. Snow can affect winter access, and dogs must be leashed.