WASHOUGAL, Wash. -- Hikers on the Washington side of the Columbia Gorge have a new trail and overlook to explore, twice as high as Crown Point.
Just a few short years ago it was the site of a million-dollar mansion but today it’s a monument to Mother Nature.
In July of 2008 high atop Cape Horn in Washougal a 5,500 sq. ft. home was demolished. It was a day neighbor Renee Tkach had waited years for.
“I can’t believe this day is actually here!” she exclaimed.
That was then. This is now.
Today, any trace of that house is gone. In its place is a brand new scenic overlook offering Cape Horn visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the Columbia Gorge.
Cape Horn Trail map, directions
“It’s better than I imagined... I mean this is just a magnificent spot,” said Tkach as she peered over the viewpoint.
“We wanted something beautiful, simple, something people would appreciate,” explained Kevin Gorman, Executive Director of Friends of the Columbia Gorge.
In 2006 Friends of the Columbia Gorge purchased the house, tore it down, and built the overlook along with an 8 mile trail that runs along the rim.
“It’s a trail that gives you old growth trees, waterfalls, great views,” said Gorman.
“Within a half an hour you’re getting a beautiful view of the gorge a lot quicker than on the Oregon side,” said hiker Peter Lax.
The trail is only 35 minutes away from Portland and is also accessible by transit which drops you off right at the trail head along SR 14.
Two highway pedestrian underpasses will soon offer hikers of all ages an uninterrupted trek to the view point 1400 feet high.
“Not a lot of people know this is here so it's kind of exciting to have some attention called to it,” said Tanis Morris who lives in the area.
The four million dollar project was funded mostly by donors to the Friends of the Columbia Gorge.
The overlook is named after Nancy Russell, the founder of the organization.
The site will be formally dedicated on August 13th.
