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Getting There
The trailhead is accessible from the Equestrian Camp Parking Lot, a bit west of Beacon Rock & Hamilton Mountain.
Take WA-14 from Vancouver, WA east toward N Bonneville. Just after Doetsch Ranch you'll see the Ranger Station on the north side of the road just before the Beacon Rock parking lot. The road winds up the hill for a bit. Keep a lookout for the the Equestrian Camp turn off.The Hike
Length: 9.35 mi
Elevation gain: 2,208 ft
Moving time: 3:32:16
Total time: 3:38:12
Avg. pace: 22:42
Calories: 1,870 (AllTrails), 2,160 (Fitbit)
Steps: 22,351 (Fitbit)
Zone Mins: 75 (65 Fat Burn, 10 Cardio/Peak)(Fitbit)
Floors: 234 (Fitbit)
Definitely a good workout and a rare warm day in February. I still wore the usual layers, best to be prepared for cooler temperatures deeper in the valley. It's a good thing because the snow on Upper Hardy Creek Trail leading up to the Bridge Trail was completely covered but it was thawing. I was able to maneuver without microspikes the whole way, although I should have put them on for extra traction.
When I reached the East Hardy Ridge Trail, it was mostly snow free but when it transitions to the foot path you're back on the snow. There were obvious foot prints so the path was easy follow. I only punched through once to the shin. With poles and careful steps, I managed to make steady progress up to the Phlox Point Trail.
I intended to hike to Phlox Point but about 0.3 mi, the route is not clear, there are so many obstacles to get around, under, over, through. In fact, I finally put on the microspikes. It helped a bit but I didn't feel like it was worth the hassle.
The hike back down was amazing. The light was golden and it was nice and warm on the West Hardy Ridge Trail. I walked for an hour and 15 mins but it seemed longer.
