Portland: Ruckel Ridge Loop
Locals coined this 8-miler the "toughest hike" in the Columbia Gorge. It gains roughly 3,500 feet from Eagle Creek to a highpoint with picturesque views.
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Trail Facts
- Distance: 12.7
Waypoints
RRL001
Location: 45.640917, -121.926414
This long dayhike requires fitness, agility, and endurance. Pack food; start early. Take Gorge Trail to Buck Point sign. Turn R, pass two campsites; start switchbacks
RRL002
Location: 45.64175, -121.920616
Keep R; avoid eroded shortcut. Cross scree field past “Trail Not Maintained” sign. Views of Bonneville Dam
RRL003
Location: 45.641468, -121.917282
Follow cairns up scree field. Navigation clue: Look L for a rock wall. This is where the trail goes. Ignore other trails
RRL004
Location: 45.639133, -121.913086
Trail tops out after thigh-burning climb (a taste of the next 4 mi.)
RRL005
Location: 45.637783, -121.90947
Outcrop with views to Eagle Creek below. Trail climbs again over logs, roots, and moss-covered rocks
RRL006
Location: 45.635117, -121.900185
Cross a narrow spine of rocks called The Catwalk
RRL007
Location: 45.634102, -121.881668
Head NE along the Columbia Wilderness border
RRL008
Location: 45.635685, -121.874268
Gorgeous views of mountains and lower forests on R
RRL009
Location: 45.636622, -121.869857
The climb eases ahead. Fire rings mark campsites on the Benson Plateau
RRL010
Location: 45.637917, -121.866936
Boulder-hop over Ruckel Creek. Cool off in pools; refill water bottles. Follow blazed trail on L; steep downhill ahead
RRL011
Location: 45.638466, -121.873085
After several switchbacks, trail passes pit dug by Native Americans
RRL012
Location: 45.636577, -121.887732
Cliff views of the Columbia River
RRL013
Location: 45.642467, -121.909233
Emerge onto campground road. Turn L; follow old road back to trailhead