15 min
Overview
A stroll around Rooster Rock State Park revels a number of natural features in the Columbia River riparian area: seasonally flooded shorelines, a forested sand dune, views to a sandy island and steep bluffs across the river, and the striking basalt monolith of Rooster Rock itself, the remnant of an ancient landslide. In summer, the park gets crowded with non-hikers, but at other times of the year, you are almost certain to find solitude at the extremities of the loop described. Note: There is an area on the east shoreline of the park that is designated clothing optional. The area is clearly defined legally (Everything just east of the parking area and north of the High Water Trail, including the Lagoon Trail and Sand Island). Hikers who may be offended by public nudity should stay clear of the area. As a matter of interest, this was the first officially designated clothing optional beach in the United States and remains only one of two in Oregon, the other being Collins Beach on Sauvie Island. Drive to the eastern end of the main parking area. This hike starts at a cement pad about 50 feet south of the restrooms. A sign here lists out a nine-hole golf course through the trees. What kind of a golf course starts at a concrete slab and heads through the trees? Why frisbee golf, of course! If you're hiking this in the recommended fall, winter, or spring months, you won't see many frisbee golfers. In summer months, you might occasionally want to duck. The main trail heads immediately down the hill towards the clothing optional beach. That trail eventually goes to the same place, but it is recommended you go straight across the grassy area from the golf tee to the wooden remains of a small sign on the north (left) side of the lawn, marking a hidden path. This route skirts the beach and a lot of loose sand walking (The newer sign on the right side marks your return trail.). Soon after entering the woods, you'll come to an odd pole with a basket and some chain on it. This is a "hole" for the frisbee golf course. H
Trail Stats
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73 m
64 m
0 m
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Photos
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