Wygant State Natural Area

Wygant State Natural Area preserves 680 acres of steep forested slopes and a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the Columbia River Gorge near Mitchell Point. The natural area protects old-growth forest and rare plant communities while providing challenging hiking access to one of the gorge's most dramatic panoramas.

The remote natural area provides habitat for wildlife sensitive to human disturbance. Black bears, mountain lions, and bobcats roam the forested slopes. Bald eagles nest on the cliffs and hunt fish from the Columbia River. Peregrine falcons have returned to the gorge's cliff faces. Northern spotted owls may occur in the old-growth forest patches.

The natural area spans the transition from wet western forest to drier eastern communities. Old-growth Douglas fir and western hemlock occupy protected slopes. Oregon white oak and ponderosa pine appear on drier aspects. Rare plants including Columbia Gorge endemics grow on rocky outcrops. Spring wildflower displays attract botanists and photographers.

Mitchell Point and the surrounding cliffs expose layers of Columbia River Basalt deposited by massive lava flows 15-17 million years ago. The cliffs formed as the Columbia River carved through these resistant layers. Ancient landslides have shaped much of the natural area's topography. Rockfall hazards require caution near cliff edges.

The natural area experiences typical gorge weather patterns with strong winds and heavy precipitation in the western sections transitioning to drier conditions eastward. Annual rainfall may exceed 70 inches on exposed slopes. The steep terrain creates microclimates ranging from moist ravines to dry cliff faces. Winter ice can make trails treacherous.

Native peoples traveled through the gorge for millennia, though the steep slopes above Mitchell Point saw limited permanent occupation. The historic Columbia River Highway tunneled through Mitchell Point from 1915-1966, creating the famous Tunnel of Many Vistas before rockfall danger forced its closure and demolition.

Oregon designated the natural area to protect the steep slopes and old-growth forest above the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail. Access remains limited to maintain the area's natural character. The natural area connects to the broader gorge trail system while preserving one of the least disturbed forest blocks in the western gorge.

A challenging trail climbs over 1,000 feet from the historic highway to the Wygant Peak viewpoint, offering stunning views of the Columbia River and gorge walls. The trail passes through old-growth forest and past scenic rock outcrops. The hike requires good fitness and sturdy footwear due to steep, rocky terrain.

The natural area has no developed facilities. Trailhead parking exists along the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail west of Mitchell Point. The trail is open for day hiking only. The nearest services are in Hood River or Cascade Locks. Visitors should be prepared for challenging terrain and changing weather conditions.

The natural area designation prioritizes preservation of old-growth forest and rare plant communities. Trail maintenance focuses on preventing erosion on steep slopes. The adjacent Mitchell Point tunnel restoration project will eventually provide improved access along the historic highway corridor. Invasive plant control protects native vegetation communities.