Washington Side of Columbia River Gorge Gets Crowded after Oregon Closures

Last year’s Eagle Creek wildfire damaged the southern side of the Columbia River Gorge, forcing the closure of more than 30 trails. This year, that shutdown has funneled crowds of hikers to the Washington side of the gorge, causing major parking problems. Until the Oregon trails reopen (likely not until later this summer or fall), rangers advise visiting the gorge early or late or targeting less-popular trails like Hardy Ridge.