Indian Creek Trail

This is a very nice hike right outside downtown Hood River, and you can start by ascending the staircase adjacent the Big Horse Brew Pub. After going up a few flights, you'll notice a marker that indicates the Indian Creek Trail (Hazel Avenue Trailhead) is to the left. Between here and the start of the trail there are no other markers, so keep walking until you see the Indian Creek Trail marker with other useful and interesting information. From here you'll enjoy a very leisurely 3.1-mile hike, listening to the sound of the creek. There are interesting markers that discuss the historical significance of the creek to the Hood River's fruit industry. The old wooden pipeline that diverted water to the Wilson Park reservoir is visible alongside the trail in the beginning. There are pretty purple wildflowers scattered throughout this section of the trail. Not much further, you'll notice the trail is under construction; a map that re-directs you back onto the trail is provided. It's recommended to take a snapshot of this map because it is only provided once or twice more during the re-route. The makeshift route leads you passed Columbia Gorge Community College, picturesque apple orchards with views of Mount Rainer and Mount Hood, and the Indian Creek Golf Course. You're back on track once you reached the Arrowhead West Trailhead in a residential area next to the golf course. There are two points where golf cart paths cross the trail itself so use caution at these areas. From here, the trail leads you beside the creek itself and across multiple wooden bridges. You'll eventually come to a clearing with many wildflowers. From here on, the trail leads you alongside Hood River High School and offers a nice view of Mount Hood. At this point you'll be about .45 miles from the end of the trail, which weaves through a beautiful farmland area.