About Dog Mountain Trail System Permits
Springtime wildflower blooms and stunning views make Dog Mountain one of the most popular hiking areas in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Columbia River Gorge and Mount Hood towering to the south. The popular Dog Mountain - Augspurger loop is a strenuous 6.8-mile hike that climbs 2,828 feet. Approximate hiking time is three to six hours. The area provides opportunities for several shorter hikes as well.Visitors can expect crowded conditions along the trail on weekends during the wildflower season. A Dog Mountain Trail System Permit is required March 31st through July 1st (Saturday and Sunday only). Each permit allows one individual one day of use on the Dog Mountain Trail System. Individuals can purchase up to four permits (per day), as available. The permit is only valid for the date reserved. The permit does not guarantee a parking space at Dog Mountain Trailhead. Permits are not required July 2nd through March 30th. There is a non-refundable reservation fee per permit.If you decide not to use your permit, please cancel your reservation in order to make space for others. Dog Mountain Trailhead is a recreation fee site and a daily, per-vehicle recreation fee of $5.00 is charged for use of the trailhead facilities. This is in addition to the reservation fee. Visitors can pay the recreation fee on-site or online at https://yourpassnow.com/parkpass. Annual passes such as the Northwest Forest Pass and other interagency senior, military, and Every Kid in a Park passes are accepted as alternate forms of payment.
How to Get There
From Stevenson, WA: Travel east on Washington State Route 14 (SR-14) for 10 miles. At milepost 53.7, there is a large sign and parking lot for the Dog Mountain Trailhead, which accesses both Dog Mountain and Augspurger Trails. From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to Cascade Locks Exit 44. Follow the off ramp under the interstate and take the first right towards the Bridge of the Gods across the Columbia River. After crossing bridge, turn right (east) onto Washington SR-14 and travel 12 miles. At milepost 53.7, there is a large sign and parking lot for the Dog Mountain Trailhead, which accesses both Dog Mountain and Augspurger Trails.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Dog Mountain Trail System Permits
Heading to Dog Mountain Trail System Permits? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Dog Mountain Trail System Permits?
No central reservation system listed for Dog Mountain Trail System Permits. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10091444) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Dog Mountain Trail System Permits?
From Stevenson, WA: Travel east on Washington State Route 14 (SR-14) for 10 miles. At milepost 53.7, there is a large sign and parking lot for the Dog Mountain Trailhead, which accesses both Dog Mountain and Augspurger Trails. From Portland, OR: Travel east on Interstate 84 to Cascade Locks Exit 44. Follow the off ramp under the interstate and take the first right towards the Bridge of the Gods ac…
How do I contact Dog Mountain Trail System Permits?
You can reach the park at phone: 541-308-1700 or email: lhaukness@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
