What is it?
Looming over the Columbia River at an impressive 4,960 feet, the summit of the aptly named Mt. Defiance is the highest point in the Gorge. The 12-mile, 4800-foot elevation gain loop hike is viewed as a conditioning jaunt to some, an enticing challenge to others, and an imposing potential nightmare to most. For those keeping score at home, that's a few 100 feet shy of a mile's worth of elevation gain. Those attempting this hike need to be fit, and need to be prepared.
Why visit?
Certainly not the view from the top; it's not what one would hope for. Though there are ample views along the way, the summit of Mt. Defiance offers hikers a set of microwave relay towers as a reward for their efforts. The woods are scenic and there are some nice waterfalls at the beginning of the hike, but that's not why people choose this hike. Mt. Defiance is a test. It's a test of conditioning, will, and whatever else hikers might need to have measured. This is not a good choice for casual hikers or families. Hiking Mt. Defiance requires the 10 essentails, as well as a high level of fitness.
Get there:
Take I-84 east of Portland to exit 55 and park at the trailhead. Before or after the hike, be sure to check out the 186 foot Starvation Creek Falls just up the path.
The hike starts by walking back towards the freeway and walking west, along the shoulder. The path soon dips into the woods and passes a couple of trail junctions and a series of refreshing waterfalls. Stay on the main trail heading west. About .25 mile after the last waterfall, the trail turns and the heavy breathing begins. Hike 3 brutal, switchbacking miles to a junction with the Mitchell Point Trail. Stay right (uphill) for 0.2 more mile to an unsigned but often cairn-marked junction leading off to the right. Follow this trail for one last scenic mile. The path crosses a large boulder field before curving up to the left, and arriving at the summit.
To continue the loop, walk past the microwave towers and pick up the path heading downhill. The trail will cross a dirt road a couple of times before reaching the Mitchell Point Trail junction again. This time turn right and head towards Warren Lake. Continue on this path, pass Warren Lake, and arrive at the Starvation Ridge Trail. Turn left here and descend three knee-crushing miles to the Starvation Creek Cutoff trail. Turn right and follow this very steep and slippery trail for .3 mile until it ends back down on solid ground. Turn right and return to your car.
Additional information:
PortlandHikers.Org Field Guide
100 Hikes in Northwest Oregon & Southwest Washington by William L. Sullivan
For more of Adam's writing, reviews, and photography, visit AdamSawyer.com
Comments
Well, I want to do it. Thanks for all of the warnings; now I have a reason to hit the gym.
Sounds like another good one.
great discription
Looks beautiful. I can't believe how many waterfalls are in your area.
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