Once April hits and the trees start glowing bright green, you can feel the shift. Clark County hiking season is back. The group texts start. The muddy boots come out again.

If you live here, spring hiking is part of normal life. You do not need a huge plan. You just need a free morning and decent shoes.

These are five of the best spring hikes in Clark County. Some are quick and easy. Some will push your legs. All of them feel worth it.

Lacamas Park

Length: 7-mile network of trails

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Lacamas Park is one of those places that works for almost everyone. You can keep it short and mellow or turn it into a longer outing.

In spring, fields of blooming camas light up parts of the park in purple. You will also see snow queen, toothwort, and rosy plectritis along the trails. The Washougal River Greenway Trail is a 2.2-mile out-and-back with boardwalk sections and a footbridge over the river.

If you want more distance, the 7-mile Lacamas Heritage Trail adds gravel paths, rock formations, and seasonal waterfalls. Locals like this one because you can adjust it to your energy level and still end at Heritage Park for a picnic.

Moulton Falls Trail

Length: 4 miles

Difficulty: Easy

Moulton Falls Trail follows the Lewis River on a wide, mostly flat path. It is one of the most accessible hikes in Clark County. The trail crosses a steel footbridge and then hugs the river with mossy cliffs rising on one side.

You will pass Lucia Falls along the way, and it is hard to miss. The water crashes through a narrow chasm, especially powerful in spring. If the lower bridge near Big Tree Falls is open, you can turn part of your hike into a short loop. If not, you head back the way you came.

Go here if you want an easy, scenic walk that still feels wild. Expect slippery sections near the waterfalls in wet weather. Bring shoes with grip.

Cape Horn Trail

Length: 7.2 miles

Difficulty: Moderate

Cape Horn Trail is a classic Gorge hike with real payoff. It is rugged, exposed in sections, and full of overlooks.

The full loop climbs and descends rocky slopes with sweeping views of the Columbia River. In spring, the waterfalls along the route flow more strongly, including Cape Horn Falls. You get a mix of forested trail and open viewpoints that tower above the river.

The terrain can be uneven, and spring mud is common. This hike demands attention, but it delivers big views without the same level of traffic as some of the better-known Gorge hikes. Go prepared for wind on the exposed sections.

Dog Mountain Trail

Length: 6 miles

Difficulty: Hard

Dog Mountain is one of the most iconic spring hikes in the Gorge, and it sits squarely in Clark County. It is steep from the start and does not let up.

You gain close to 2,800 feet of elevation over six miles. The switchbacks feel relentless. In spring, the summit explodes with yellow balsamroot. On clear days, you can see Mount Hood and the Columbia River stretched out below you.

This hike requires a permit on spring weekends, and parking fills fast. Plan ahead and go early. This hike is challenging, but the wildflowers and views make it worth it.

Salmon Creek Trail

Length: 5 miles

Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Salmon Creek Trail is a paved, multi-use path that runs through wetlands, ponds, and restored habitat areas. It is one of the easiest ways to get outside without committing to a mountain climb.

You will likely see more birds than fish. Ducks, geese, and swans are common along the water. The grade is gentle overall, with a few mild ups and downs. Some sections can get muddy after heavy rain, especially where pavement transitions to softer surfaces.

It feels close to town but still quiet once you get moving. If you want a low-intensity option that still gets you outside, this is it.

Get Out There

Spring hiking in Clark County is part of what makes living here so good. You have forests, rivers, wildflowers, and mountain views within reach.

Pick one of these this weekend. Go early. Bring snacks. Expect mud.

If living closer to Clark County’s best hikes is on your radar, I’m here to guide you. I help people land in neighborhoods that fit their lifestyle. Trails included.

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