Coyote Wall, the Labyrinth Trail, and Hawkins Cellars
We are back on the hunt for wildflowers! This week we head about 1.5 hours east of Portland to Washington’s Coyote Wall in the Columbia Gorge. Join us on the Labyrinth Trail, where rugged towers of basalt and the winding Columbia River are a perfect backdrop for the dozens of wildflower species that bloom here in the spring.
Suksdorf’s desert parsley grows in the basalt cliff of Coyote Wall
To reach Coyote Wall from Portland, either take I-84 east and cross the Hood River Bridge OR avoid the $2 toll and take Hwy 14 east from Vancouver, which adds about 15 minutes to the scenic drive. Parking for Coyote Wall will be directly off Hwy 14 on the left. Parking is free and no pass is needed. It does get crowded on sunny weekend days, so you will want to get there early during peak season. Leashed dogs are welcome on the trail. The hike is good for children, although watch out for some steep areas and for poison oak near the trail. The hike is 3.6 miles in total but do as much or as little as you want. There are great sights throughout, and a partial hike will still be worth it!
The trail begins on a flat, paved road along the base of Coyote Wall, formerly highway 8. After walking 0.9 miles from the parking area, look for the sign for the Labyrinth Trail on your left. In spring, a small waterfall just past the trailhead showers a portion of the basalt cliff and fallen boulders with water, creating a niche for moss to grow. After checking out the waterfall, return to the trailhead and begin heading up the hill.
The narrow dirt path of the Labyrinth Trail threads through fields of wildflowers and scrub oak as it climbs to reveal sweeping views of the Columbia Gorge. The trail offers regular rewards along way like Labyrinth Falls, the cascading pools of Labyrinth Creek, numerous overlook points, and intriguing basalt formations. You’ll want to stop frequently along the way - both to catch your breath and to take in the vistas that surround you on this specular trail.
The wildflowers on this hike are truly outstanding. Delicate yellow desert parsley blooms are the standouts on this trail in April, but there are dozens of species to see. Be on the lookout for poet’s shooting stars, cluster lilies, phlox, ballhead waterleaf, and so many more.
One of the highlights of the trail is Accordion Rock, a distinctive outcropping of basalt that resembles the regular folds of an accordion. This rock is a favorite amongst climbers who may be seen on the columnar cliff face.
Once you reach the Rowland Basin Viewpoint, head back down the trail the way you came to return to the parking area. It’s time to kick back and relax at nearby Hawkins Cellars, only 15 minutes away from Coyote Wall.
To reach Hawkins, take Highway 14 west towards Portland for about 6 miles, then turn right on Cook-Underwood Road and follow it for 4 miles. The winery will be on your right. Hawkins Cellars is a great place to unwind. On a clear day, take in views of Mount Hood behind neat rows of grapes surrounded by pine trees. Sit in the covered patio by the heaters if it’s chilly, or lounge in an Adirondack chair when the sun is shining. Bring a picnic and lawn games. Once you come, you won’t be in a hurry to leave anytime soon.
If you’re new the Hawkins, consider a tasting flight to as an introduction to their wines, which focus on French varietals sourced from higher altitude vines. Try out their Chardonnay that is conspicuous for its lack of buttery flavor often associated with this type of wine. If you’re feeling in more of a red wine mood, you can’t go wrong with one of their Pinot Noir bottles, which are pleasingly subtle and complex.
Need more wildflowers? We don’t blame you, we can’t get enough either. You can cross the Hood River Bridge and head to the Mosier Plateau for even more blooms!
Cheers to your next adventure!
With love,
Emma
