Don’t Try This One Hike in Oregon if You’re Afraid of Heights

When it comes to heights, I’m terrified. It’s one of my greatest fears. You likely will never see me riding a Ferris Wheel, and when I rode in a hot air balloon this last summer, my knuckles turned white from gripping the basket so tightly. There is a hiking trail in the Columbia River Gorge with such extreme heights that it makes my palms sweat and my knees shake—the Mount Defiance-Starvation Ridge Loop. This Oregon hiking trail is not easy. In fact, it’s known for its difficulty, massive elevation gain, and steep climbs and drop-offs. However, if you have the endurance, stamina, and courage, the views you’ll experience on this loop trail are impossible to compare.

The Mount Defiance-Starvation Ridge Loop will test you physically and mentally. The trail begins in a small parking area just off Interstate 84 in Starvation Creek State Park. It’s not a short journey as the trail takes you to Mount Defiance through the Columbia River Gorge. You will hike for nearly 13 miles, making this a full-day hike and an outdoor adventure you must properly prepare for.

Right from the beginning, you’ll enjoy gorgeous scenery. You’ll cross creeks, hike through thick forests, and come to viewpoints where Shellrock Mountain, Wind Mountain, and Dog Mountain stand boldly in front of you across the river.

You'll also enjoy several natural features as you hike like roaring waterfalls in the spring and colorful wildflowers in the summer. In 2017, a fire spread through this area, and you’ll still see evidence of its destruction along your way as well. If there is a view you come across that you particularly love, I recommend you stop, rest, and enjoy it for a few minutes because this trail is steep and hard. In total, you will climb nearly 5,000 feet in elevation. There are portions of this trail where you will have steep switchbacks to climb. You’ll walk along narrow ridges and rocks. In fact, your climb is so steep in areas that you’ll gain approximately 3,000 feet of elevation in just three miles.

Proper footwear is a must as the terrain you'll cross is quite rocky. If you worry about keeping your footing, you may also want to bring trekking poles to help you keep your balance. Extra layers, snacks, plenty of water, and sun protection are also a must—this is a hike where preparedness is critical.

With such steep climbs and a high number of miles, this isn’t a trail for beginning hikers. You will need endurance and stamina. As you walk along the steep and narrow ridges with loose rock, take your time and don’t look down. It can easily make you freeze if you have a fear of heights.

However, the scenic views you will experience as you climb are worth the challenge and the extra effort required for this Oregon hike. As you make it to the top of Mount Defiance, you may be able to see for miles. This area of the country is breathtaking, and you have one of the very best views in front of you—don’t take it for granted. Enjoy it.

The Mount Defiance-Starvation Ridge Loop is considered one of the most difficult hiking trails in Oregon. It’s steep, long, and high. But it’s also gorgeous and unforgettable. It’s a trail worth building up your physical fitness to experience. You may just need a dose of courage if you are like me and have a fear of heights.

Have you ever tackled the Mount Defiance-Starvation Ridge Loop? What was your experience like? What do you believe is the most difficult hiking trail in Oregon? Let me know by filling out this nomination form. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Plan your own trip to the Mount Defiance-Starvation Ridge Loop and Oregon’s Columbia River Gorge with Only In Your State’s AI-powered itinerary planner.