7.5 miles of hiking • 2750' elevation gain •
Dayhike up Dog Mountain. Took the "less difficult" route up, passed Lady Slipper orchids, chocolate lillies, Columbia Wind Flower, and Queens Cup. Nearing the top, you walk through hillsides covered in Arrowleaf Balsamroot, a yellow flower. The views were non-existant at first due to thick clouds. We were disappointed, but took a well deserved lunchbreak at the top. While we waited, the clouds suddenly parted and a vertigo inducing view of the entire Gorge opened up suddenly. It was a strange feeling, like we were about to be thrown into the river far below. We headed West down the loop trail towards Augsperger Mtn. trail and the long gentle downhill back to the parking lot. Enjoyable day.
