Portland, OR: Mitchell Point

Mitchell Point in the eastern Columbia Gorge is the site of one of the Historic Columbia River Highway’s acclaimed window tunnels. Now long gone, a turnoff with interpretive sign and viewpoint commemorates the historic location. Near the back of the parking area, a light trail heads upwards through the trees, gaining 950′ to an outcropping rock fin with stunning bird’s eye views.

From the trailhead near the restroom, start a steady climb up through fir forest. The trail eventually begins switchbacking, alternating forest and exposed talus slopes. Approach a service road, cross over, then turn left to tackle the final ascent up the back side of Mitchell Point. The trail narrows precipitously, and finally ends at the high point on the ledge. Soak in the view, from Table Mountain to White Salmon, and spot hawks and eagles gliding nearby before returning by the same route.

Mapped by Eli Boschetto Bosco Mountain Photo

Trail Facts

• Distance: 1.5

Waypoints

MIT001

Location: 45.702804, -121.618454

Mitchell Point trailhead near restroom.

MIT002

Location: 45.701257, -121.618481

Left at switchback.

MIT003

Location: 45.701701, -121.61796

Right at switchback.

MIT004

Location: 45.70176, -121.617022

Right at switchback.

MIT005

Location: 45.699885, -121.615759

Right at switchback.

MIT006

Location: 45.69839, -121.614248

Cross service road to continue on trail.

MIT007

Location: 45.698467, -121.613768

At service road, turn left for trail up back of Mitchell Point.

MIT008

Location: 45.700437, -121.614421

Mitchell Point, 945′ above the Columbia River.

Mitchell Trail

Location: 45.700668, -121.616759

The steep trail to Mitchell Point switchbacks up a loose talus slope.

Backside

Location: 45.69881, -121.613958

The final stretch up the back side of Mitchell Point.

Mitchell Point

Location: 45.700253, -121.614414

The crumbling rock fin jutting out from Mitchell Point.

Point View

Location: 45.700417, -121.614388

The Columbia River Gorge from atop Mitchell Point.