Mosier Plateau and Idiot’s Grace Wines
It’s springtime in the Columbia Gorge, which means that our hunt for the best wildflower hikes has begun. If you share our passion for blooms, we recommend driving just over an hour east of Portland to Mosier, OR and hike the Mosier Plateau Trail for some phenomenal river views and flowers galore. This hike is beautiful year-round, but the wildflowers will be most striking in April and May.
To reach the trailhead from Portland, drive east on I-84 and take exit 69 for Mosier. Park in the public parking area near Totem Plaza. Parking is free, no pass is needed, and there are port-a-potties available near the parking area. Dogs are welcome on trail, and the hike is suitable for children but be aware there are some steep areas. The town of Mosier has restaurants and food carts to grab a snack if you want to fuel up before the hike. To begin the 3.5 mile out-and-back hike, cross the white, one-lane Mosier Creek Bridge and look for the sign for the Mosier Plateau Trail.
Mosier Creek Bridge leading to the trailhead
Mosier cemetery
The trail begins with a slow climb that follows the Mosier Creek. A short way up the hill you will pass the headstones of the Mosier family in the small cemetery. Continue a little farther to reach the viewpoint for Mosier Creek Falls. The view is excellent this time of year, with the vibrant green of new grass framing the rushing water of the falls and the single flowering bush that seems to grow miraculously out of bare rock.
Mosier Creek Falls
After you pass the falls, the trail becomes more strenuous as you climb the switchbacks that lead to Mosier viewpoint. The climb is worth the effort and there are wildflowers throughout to take your mind off the uphill grade. Tread carefully, as the trail is narrow and lined with flowers. Be on the lookout for cow vetch, desert parsley, and cluster lilies among others. Once you reach the top of the hill, balsamroot will be the star of the show. Dense clumps of bright yellow flowers create a dramatic foreground for the Columbia Gorge below. Catch your breath at Mosier viewpoint and take in the views of the Columbia River and town of Mosier. Across the river in Washington, you will see the distinctive basalt cliffs of Coyote Wall. Continue until you reach Syncline viewpoint, then return the way you came to head back down the hill.
We found the sight of vineyards on the return trip to be a promising sign for our next stop, Idiot’s Grace Wines, and we were not disappointed. To reach the winery, take Historic Highway 30 east for one mile and the winery will be on your right.
Idiot’s Grace Wines in Mosier
Idiot’s Grace Wines is a family-owned winery that also functions as an organic farm growing grapes, pears, and cherries. Spring is a great time to visit when the orchard is in bloom. The relaxed atmosphere there makes for a great extension to a day spent in nature. Seating is outdoors at the picnic tables next to the winery. It is covered and there are heaters, but we suggest using the provided cushions and blankets on a chilly day. Reservations are available but not required. We tried out their current tasting menu, which provides a lovely introduction to their wines. If you’re considering a bottle, we found the 2017 Primitivo to be a favorite in the tasting with delicious hints of berry and spice. Bottles range from around $25-45.
Looking for more in the area? Consider adding the nearby Rowena Crest Viewpoint and Plateau trail to your itinerary.
Cheers to your next adventure!
