Memaloose Lookout – View from Chatfield Hill loop from Memaloose State Park
Memaloose Lookout – View from Chatfield Hill loop from Memaloose State Park
2.9
(28)
45
hikers
Memaloose Lookout – View from Chatfield Hill loop from Memaloose State Park
01:40
5.56km
150m
Hiking
Moderate hike. Great for any fitness level. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required. The starting point of the route is right next to a parking lot.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Tips
Your route passes through protected areas
Please check local regulations for:
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
68 m
Memaloose Lookout
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
2.04 km
View from Chatfield Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
Tip by
3.43 km
Marsh Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
5.56 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
4.77 km
701 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
Surfaces
3.30 km
2.17 km
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Saturday 4 July
29°C
15°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 32.0 km/h
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Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Description
The Memaloose Lookout – View from Chatfield Hill loop from Memaloose State Park is a fantastic choice if you're seeking a high-reward hike with stunning wildflowers and panoramic vistas. This moderate 3.5-mile (5.6 km) hiking route, with 487 feet (148 metres) of climbing, takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete. It's an ideal option for those looking for a top rated loop hike in the Columbia River Gorge, especially during the vibrant spring bloom, offering impressive displays often with fewer crowds than other popular wildflower trails.
What to expect on Memaloose Lookout – View from Chatfield Hill loop from Memaloose State Park
The route begins by winding through pleasant oak and ponderosa pine forests, offering a gentle start before the landscape opens up. As you progress, particularly towards Chatfield Hill, you'll find yourself amidst slopes carpeted with wildflowers, a truly spectacular sight in spring. The climb up Chatfield Hill is notably steep but short, making it an "easy hike with a difficult quarter mile," so be prepared for a brief burst of effort. From the summit, you're rewarded with expansive views of the Columbia River, Memaloose Island, Mount Hood, and Mount Adams, making it well worth the climb. This trail is perfect for hikers who appreciate diverse scenery and big payoffs, but be aware of potential poison oak and rattlesnakes, especially in warmer months.
Planning your visit
The best time to visit for wildflowers is typically April and May, though blooms can extend into late June. The trail starts across old Highway 30 from the Memaloose Overlook parking area, which can sometimes be unmarked at its beginning. While accessible year-round, spring offers the most vibrant experience. There are no specific permits mentioned for this hike, but always check local conditions before heading out. Arriving earlier in the day during peak season can help ensure a parking spot and a more serene experience.
Trail details
- Distance: 3.5 miles (5.6 km)
- Elevation gain: 487 feet (148 metres)
- Difficulty: moderate
- Estimated time: 1 hours and 40 minutes
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