Sagebrush Trail – Badger Mountain loop from Trailhead Park

If you're looking for an accessible and rewarding hike with expansive views, the Sagebrush Trail – Badger Mountain loop from Trailhead Park is an excellent choice. This moderate hiking route covers 5.5 miles (8.9 km) with 858 feet (261 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 2 hours and 36 minutes. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a less strenuous ascent to the summit of Badger Mountain while still enjoying panoramic vistas.

What to expect on Sagebrush Trail – Badger Mountain loop from Trailhead Park

The Sagebrush Trail offers a journey through varied terrain, starting with a wide, 5-foot crushed rock surface that makes for comfortable walking. You'll climb the northeast flank of Badger Mountain through open dryland grass slopes before entering an old stand of sagebrush, with switchbacks easing the ascent. As you gain elevation, prepare for continuous panoramic views of the Columbia Basin, the Tri-Cities, and distant peaks like Mount Hood and Mount Adams on clear days. Keep an eye out for the Lake Lewis marker on an open ridge, a historical nod to the Ice Age Floods. This trail is a popular choice for hikers, runners, and even mountain bikers, offering a less steep alternative to other routes on the mountain.

Planning your visit

Trailhead Park serves as your starting point, offering restrooms and water before you head out. Remember there is no shade on the trail, so consider an early morning or late afternoon hike during warmer months. Dogs are welcome on a leash. While the Sagebrush Trail is generally an easier route, combining it with sections of the Skyline and Canyon Trails, as this loop does, provides a well-rounded moderate challenge.

Trail details

• Distance: 5.5 miles (8.9 km)
• Elevation gain: 858 feet (261 metres)
• Difficulty: moderate
• Estimated time: 2 hours and 36 minutes