Columbia River Gorge, Wine, Easy Hiking and Relaxation
Spring in the Columbia River Gorge brings wildflowers, wine tasting and relaxation. This is great place to unwind, hike along the river.
Overview
This trip will provide a beautiful drive through Yakima Valley, through untouched Yakima Indian Reservation and Satus Pass, down to Goldendale and into the Columbia River Gorge area. We will be stopping off for wine tasting at MaryHill Winery that sits atop the Columbia river.
After wine tasting, will stop briefly at Stonehenge which is a little odd in Washington State, but still a site to see. Our 6 bedroom house with indoor pool and hot tub awaits us in The Dalles for some dinner, relaxation and entertainment. Everyone will have their own private queen bedroom to relax and unwind.
Saturday will head off for a medium distance hike, 4.6 miles along the Deschutes River Canyon with plenty of stops to enjoy the sites and wildflowers that spring has to offer. The following day, there will be an optional sunrise hike, just one mile before a grand brunch.
Trip Outline
4/22/22 1 pm
Leave Issaquah Highlands Park and Ride, off to The Dalles.
Enjoy some amazing scenery on the way, while riding in a comfortable 12 passenger van with snacks and water provided.
Wine tasting at MaryHill Winery just outside Goldendale. Enjoy a drink while overlooking the Columbia River gorge. Will head to the house where dinner will be provided.
4/23/22 9:00 am
The theme of this trip is relaxation. Sleep in and grab some breakfast, or get up a little early for some yoga. Will head out for Deschutes River Canyon trail which is 4.6 miles and 780 feet elevation gain. Wildflowers should be out for us to enjoy. Lunch on the trail will be provided, bring a backpack and water container to stay hydrated.
After the hike and amazing views, will head back to the house for some down time, chance to jump in the pool or rest in the hot tub. A healthy dinner will be provided. Movie in the theater room, a round of hearts, or read a good book, up to you on how you spend your evening.
4/24/22 7:00 am
For the last morning, will plan for early rise to catch the sunrise at the Horsethief Butte Trail, just 1 mile long with 100 feet elevation gain. Will bring some coffee, tea or cocoa and relax over the Columbia. After the hike we will head back to the house for a grand brunch right before we head home.
Planned arrival to the park and ride would be roughly 3 pm, with some wiggle room for food/beverage stop on the way.
