Klickitat Rail Trail - Image 1
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Klickitat River Trail Lyle

4.5
·194 reviews·Lyle, United States

A 31-mile scenic corridor following the Klickitat River through a gorgeous canyon, offering well-maintained gravel paths and wilder sections.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Klickitat Rail Trail - Image 1

Klickitat River Trail Lyle

Best Time

Spring mornings

Flowers bloom, fewer crowds

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 31-mile scenic corridor following the Klickitat River through a gorgeous canyon, offering well-maintained gravel paths and wilder sections.

4.5
(194 reviews)

"Beautiful, gorgeous and breathtakingly stunningly amazingly majestically wonderful!!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking at Lyle Trailhead

Great parking available at the Lyle trailhead, with restrooms. About 0.6 miles to the county park .

🐎 Horse Riding Gear

If riding horses, definitely recommend boots or pads for their feet due to the rough gravel .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Klickitat River Canyon

Klickitat River Canyon

Follows the Klickitat River north from Lyle

A 31-mile scenic corridor through a gorgeous canyon, following the Klickitat River.

Native American Fishing Platforms

Native American Fishing Platforms

Visible along the river near Lyle

See ancient fishing platforms carved into basalt rock along the wild river.

Spring Wildflowers

Spring Wildflowers

Throughout the trail

Experience an abundance of various flowers blooming along the trail in spring.

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Planning Your Visit

Trail Conditions & Best Access

The Klickitat River Trail offers varied conditions. The Lyle section is well-maintained gravel, ideal for easy walks and biking.Reddit However, the Centerville section is rougher.Reddit Be aware of potential mud after heavy rain TikTok and consider horse boots due to the gravel.Reddit

Respecting the River & Wildlife

The Klickitat River is a stunning natural feature, with Native American fishing platforms visible in some sections.Reddit Spring brings abundant flowers, but also ticks.Reddit Be mindful of wildlife and the natural environment during your visit.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Flowers bloom, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Fall afternoons
Why
Gorgeous canyon colors
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quiet, peaceful experience
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

What an Awesome 47 mile loop ride today with these Hooligans!! Up Klickitat trail from Lyle to Centerville highway and back!! Beautiful country. Saturday’s serious down poor sure messed up the Klickitat river, it was super muddy.
mike__coombs
9 likes • 210 views

🚗 Parking at Lyle Trailhead

Great parking available at the Lyle trailhead, with restrooms. About 0.6 miles to the county park.Reddit

🐎 Horse Riding Gear

If riding horses, definitely recommend boots or pads for their feet due to the rough gravel.Reddit

The Klickitat State Park Trail is a 31-mile scenic corridor that starts in Lyle (about 80 miles east of Vancouver on state Highway 14), follows the Klickitat River north through a gorgeous canyon, then hooks east (and eventually southeast) toward the towns of Centerville and Goldendale. Like other “rail trails” across the nation, the user-friendliness of this pathway is due to the fact that it’s ...
thecolumbian
41 likes • 2.2K views
Some scenes from the Klickitat River trail today ✨ felt good to get out of town and do the out and back from Lyle to Klickitat. So surprise I’m kind of simple and it’s my favorite route to do out there 🙂. I like that there are zero cars and you can listen to the river the whole way 💜. Even though there is little elevation, there’s a lot of strength work in getting through the very rocky terrain. T...
bred.pdx
38 likes • 605 views

⚠️ Avoid Fisher Hill Bridge

Community members advise avoiding the Fisher Hill Bridge area due to unsavory individuals and aggressive dogs.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walks & Biking

The Lyle section is mellow, flat, and well-maintained gravel, perfect for leisurely walks and biking.Reddit

reddit.com

Flattish forest run recommendations near Portland?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking at Lyle Trailhead

Great parking available at the Lyle trailhead, with restrooms. About 0.6 miles to the county park.Reddit

🐎 Horse Riding Gear

If riding horses, definitely recommend boots or pads for their feet due to the rough gravel.Reddit

⚠️ Avoid Fisher Hill Bridge

Community members advise avoiding the Fisher Hill Bridge area due to unsavory individuals and aggressive dogs.Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Walks & Biking

The Lyle section is mellow, flat, and well-maintained gravel, perfect for leisurely walks and biking.Reddit

🌿 Embrace the Nature

Enjoy the zero-car environment and listen to the river. It's a simple but favorite route for many.TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(194 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the Klickitat River Trail's stunning canyon scenery and the peaceful, car-free environment, especially the well-maintained gravel path near Lyle. While some sections are rougher, the natural beauty and accessibility for walking and biking are consistently praised. Some caution is advised regarding ticks in spring and specific areas to avoid.

"Great parking lot, just about 6/10 of a mile to the county park and 1 mile to the bridge with not much scenery but trees and a road in between. Clean restrooms.

At that 6/10 mile mark you do get this view, but you could just drive to the county park and hike on to the bridge."

Chris A

"Awesome experience with tons of various flowers in the spring. Only complaint was a crazy amount of ticks and the rough gravel road is hard on the horses feet. Definitely recommend boots or pads."

Sadie Smathers

"This is a great trail for leisurely walks, biking, or walking your dog. It's a very mellow and flat trail and it's well maintained. Just avoid spending any time near the fisher hill bridge, there is a whole community of people who are far less than savory. These people also have very mean dogs and they encourage them to chase people."

Micah Fitzsimmons

What People Like

Beautiful canyon views
Peaceful, car-free atmosphere
Well-maintained gravel path (Lyle section)

What People Dislike

Rougher trail sections (Centerville)
Ticks in spring
Fisher Hill Bridge area concerns

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Lyle trailhead is about 80 miles east of Vancouver on State Highway 14.TikTok It's roughly an hour's drive from Portland, making it a good option for a day trip.Reddit

Yes, there is great parking available at the Lyle trailhead, which is also signed as the Klickitat River Trail. Clean restrooms are also on-site.Reddit

The trail can also be accessed near Centerville and Goldendale, managed by Washington State Parks. This section is noted as having a rougher, more rustic surface compared to the Lyle section.Reddit

While the main trail is well-maintained gravel, access roads to some sections might be rough. It's best to check local conditions if planning to drive larger vehicles.

The trail starts in Lyle and extends towards Centerville and Goldendale. These towns offer amenities and further access points to the trail system.TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Generally, no specific permit is required for day use on the Klickitat River Trail. However, it's always wise to check with the US Forest Service or Washington State Parks for any specific regulations or potential fees, especially for overnight camping or group events.

There are typically no entrance fees for accessing and using the Klickitat River Trail for hiking or biking. Parking at the Lyle trailhead is also usually free.Reddit

The Klickitat River Trail is generally open year-round from dawn to dusk. However, access might be limited during severe weather conditions, especially after heavy rain.TikTok

While there aren't widely advertised guided tours specifically for the Klickitat River Trail, local outdoor outfitters or tourism boards might offer related excursions. It's recommended to research local providers.

The section of the trail starting in Lyle is well-maintained gravel and relatively flat, making it accessible for many. However, other sections can be rougher.Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

Expect a gorgeous canyon with the Klickitat River flowing through it. You'll see basalt rock formations, native trees, and in spring, a variety of flowers.TikTokReddit

The diverse habitat along the river and through the canyon likely supports a variety of bird species. Spring and fall migrations can be particularly rewarding for birdwatchers.

Yes, you can see Native American fishing platforms along the river where it cuts through basalt rock.Reddit The trail itself is a former railway line, adding a layer of industrial history.

The river itself, the canyon walls, and the fishing platforms offer great photographic opportunities. The fall colors are particularly stunning.Reddit

Be aware of ticks in spring Reddit and potential mud after rain.TikTok Some users advise avoiding the Fisher Hill Bridge area due to local issues.Reddit

🎫 🚴‍♀️ Biking & Hiking

The Lyle section is excellent for gravel biking due to its flat and well-maintained surface.Reddit The Centerville section is rougher and might be more challenging for some bikes.

The trail is generally described as flat or having little elevation gain, making it suitable for easy rides and walks.TikTok

The trail is a 31-mile scenic corridor.TikTok Many visitors enjoy out-and-back sections, such as the route from Lyle to Klickitat.TikTok

Yes, the flattish, gravel surface is suitable for running, especially the well-maintained sections near Lyle.Reddit

For the Lyle section, comfortable walking or biking shoes are fine. If you plan to explore rougher sections or ride horses, consider more robust footwear or specialized gear.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dining facilities directly on the trail itself. You'll need to visit nearby towns like Lyle or Goldendale for food options.TikTok

Yes, picnicking is a great option. There are scenic spots along the trail where you can stop and enjoy a meal. Remember to pack out all your trash.

Lyle has a few local eateries, often featuring casual dining. It's best to check current business hours and offerings before your visit.

The area around Goldendale and Lyle is known for its wineries. You can find several options for wine tasting before or after your trail adventure.Reddit

It's highly recommended to bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan a longer excursion, as amenities are scarce on the trail itself.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Klickitat River Trail, especially the Lyle section, is fantastic for families. Its flat, well-maintained gravel surface makes it easy for little ones to walk or ride bikes without much struggle.Reddit The zero-car environment provides peace of mind, allowing kids to explore safely while you listen to the river.TikTok Pack plenty of snacks and water, as amenities are limited on the trail itself. Consider a short out-and-back trip from Lyle to the county park or bridge for a manageable adventure.

🚴‍♀️ Cyclists

For cyclists, the Klickitat River Trail offers a smooth gravel experience on its Lyle section, perfect for gravel biking or leisurely rides.Reddit The trail's minimal elevation gain makes it accessible for riders of all skill levels. Many enjoy the out-and-back route from Lyle to Klickitat, appreciating the car-free environment and the soothing sound of the river.TikTok Be aware that the Centerville section is rougher and may require a more robust bike or different riding style.

🚶‍♀️ Hikers Seeking Easy Trails

If you're looking for an easy, scenic hike, the Klickitat River Trail near Lyle is an excellent choice. The gravel path is smooth and level, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll or a longer walk without significant exertion.Reddit You can enjoy the natural beauty of the canyon and the river at your own pace. The trail is also a great option for dog walking, provided you keep your pets leashed and clean up after them.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Klickitat River Trail: A Tale of Two Sections

The Klickitat River Trail is not a monolithic experience; it's a journey through distinct environments. The section starting in Lyle, managed by the US Forest Service, is a well-maintained gravel path. This makes it incredibly accessible for leisurely walks, family outings, and easy biking.Reddit You'll find clean restrooms and ample parking here, setting a welcoming tone for visitors.Reddit The trail here follows the river, offering glimpses of its power as it carves through the landscape.

In contrast, the section managed by Washington State Parks near Centerville and Goldendale presents a wilder, more rustic appearance. The trail surface here is rougher, which can be more challenging for some users, including horses that may require protective boots.Reddit This section offers a more rugged adventure for those seeking a less manicured experience. Despite the difference in surface, both sections showcase the stunning beauty of the Klickitat Canyon,TikTokReddit making the entire 31-mile corridor a worthwhile exploration.

Best Practices for Horseback Riding

The Klickitat River Trail is a popular spot for horseback riding, offering miles of scenic terrain. However, riders should be prepared for the trail's surface. The gravelly nature of the trail, particularly in the Lyle section, can be hard on horses' hooves.Reddit To ensure a comfortable and safe ride, it is highly recommended to use horse boots or hoof pads.Reddit This simple precaution can prevent discomfort and potential injury, allowing both horse and rider to enjoy the experience more fully.

Beyond hoof protection, riders should also be mindful of the spring tick season.Reddit Checking horses for ticks after a ride is a good practice. While the trail is generally peaceful, riders should also be aware of other users and maintain a controlled pace. The beauty of the Klickitat Canyon is best enjoyed when all trail users share the space respectfully.

Photography Opportunities Along the Trail

The Klickitat River Trail is a photographer's dream, especially for those who appreciate natural landscapes and unique cultural elements. The Klickitat River itself is a star, with its wild flow through narrow channels and basalt rock formations.Reddit Look for opportunities to capture the dynamic water, especially after rain when it can be more dramatic.TikTok The Native American fishing platforms are particularly photogenic, offering a glimpse into the area's history and a striking visual against the river and canyon backdrop.Reddit

For landscape photographers, the Klickitat Canyon provides breathtaking vistas, particularly in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant colors.Reddit The trail's gentle grade means you can often stop easily to set up a shot. In the spring, the abundance of wildflowers adds pops of color to the scenery.Reddit Remember to bring extra batteries and memory cards, as you'll likely find yourself stopping frequently to capture the diverse beauty of this trail.

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