The scenic Hospital Hill hike near Bingen, Washington

One of the best views overlooking the Columbia River Gorge is on Hospital Hill above Bingen, Washington, and it only requires an easy 20 minute hike to get there.

Note: Many thanks to the Kreps family, who have made their privately-owned land available to us locals. Please ensure to follow their guidelines which includes closing the gate behind you and not bringing dogs during spring to avoid disturbing cattle.

The trailhead is located on winding Courtney Road, and the path is used for hiking, mountain biking and sometimes even by paragliders. Be sure to obey any No Parking signs, and know that while there are Private Property/No Trespassing signs the Kreps are kind enough to currently allow users onto the trail as long as the rules are followed.

This is one of the easiest hikes near Hood River, since it’s only .9 miles each way and the trail has a mild incline. There are great views of Mt Hood right off the bat, and wildflowers start blooming as early as March.

During the summer months you’ll likely see cattle grazing, and Hospital Hill is also a fantastic place to watch the sunset.

It only takes about 20 minutes to reach the most panoramic viewpoint (you’ll see a large home on the right), which has sweeping views of the Columbia River Gorge including the bridge that links Hood River and White Salmon. There’s also a small bench built into the hillside, which is a great place to enjoy a picnic lunch.

A fun option is to do the Hospital Hill hike, then head back down Courtney Road to the trailhead where the spectacular Coyote Wall hike begins. It’s part of the 20-mile Syncline Trail system which is a prime spot for mountain biking, and links up with other trails like the Catherine Creek hike.

YOU MIGHT ALSO ENJOY:

• Hiking the incredible Hamilton Mountain Trail in Washington
• The Coyote Wall hike on Washington’s Syncline Trail
• Catherine Creek Trail: One of the best spring hikes in Washington
• The best things to do in Hood River Oregon
• A complete travel guide to the city of White Salmon, Washington