About Mitchell Point Trailhead
Mitchell Point Trailhead provides access to two trails in Wygant State Natural Area: the Wygant Trail begins on the west end of the parking lot, and the Mitchell Point Trail starts on the east end. A short walk from the lot offers views of the Columbia River Gorge and interpretive displays about the historic Mitchell Point Tunnel, built in 1915 as part of the Historic Columbia River Highway. The tunnel was closed in 1953 and demolished in 1966 to widen Interstate 84; efforts are underway to create a new crossing to reconnect segments of the Historic Columbia River Highway State Trail.
The Wygant Trail is an 8-mile out-and-back route with about 2,300 feet of elevation gain, following an old section of the Historic Columbia River Highway before ascending through dense forest and switchbacks to a summit obscured by Douglas firs—glimpses of the original view can be found via a game trail to a nearby meadow. The Mitchell Point Trail is a 2.6-mile out-and-back with roughly 1,300 feet of elevation gain, climbing steep switchbacks to a crest with expansive views of the Columbia River and Washington-side rock formations. Winter storms often damage trails; check oregonhikers.org for current conditions, and keep dogs leashed at all times.