The best hikes from bus stations in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge
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Bus station hiking trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge are situated within a 1,049-acre restored Columbia River floodplain. The landscape features wetlands, shallow ponds, marshes, open fields, and riparian woodlands, providing diverse habitats. Trails are generally flat and accessible, primarily surfaced with compacted gravel, offering minimal elevation change. The refuge is bordered by the Columbia River, and some vantage points provide views of Mount Hood.
Best bus station hiking trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge
- The most popular bus station hiking route is Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a 6.4 miles (10.4 km) trail that takes 2 hours 39 minutes to complete. This moderate route offers views of the refuge's diverse habitats.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Washougal River Greenway loop from Camas, an easy 2.3 miles (3.7 km) path. This trail follows the Washougal River Greenway, providing a gentle walk.
- Local hikers also love the Lacamas Regional Park – The Camas Potholes loop from Camas, a 4.3 miles (7.0 km) trail leading through varied parkland, often completed in about 1 hour 58 minutes.
- Hiking in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge is defined by its Columbia River floodplain setting, wetlands, and riparian woodlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, with a focus on accessible, low-elevation routes.
- The routes in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 60 reviews. More than 1400 hikers have used komoot to explore Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 17, 2026
8
hikers
10.4km
02:39
30m
30m
The Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers a delightful journey through diverse landscapes, from shallow ponds and marshes to open fields and riparian woodlands. You'll follow wide, flat, compact gravel trails that parallel the Columbia River, providing excellent views and, on clear days, glimpses of Mount Hood and Oregon's Crown Point. Keep an eye out for the unique art installations along the Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail, which add an extra layer of interest to this accessible route.
This moderate 6.4-mile (10.4 km) hiking loop, with a minimal 112 feet (34 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 38 minutes to complete. The trailhead provides convenient parking, restrooms, and interpretive kiosks. Remember that a portion of the Wildlife Art Trail closes seasonally from October 1st to April 30th to protect wintering waterfowl, so check ahead if you plan to visit during those months.
Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife, particularly known as a birding paradise with hundreds of species, including great blue herons, geese, and pileated woodpeckers. Its location also serves as the western gateway to the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, offering a unique blend of floodplain scenery and views of the surrounding bluffs. This makes it a fantastic option for family-friendly hikes and anyone interested in wildlife spotting.
1.90km
00:29
10m
10m
The Glenn Otto Park and Sandy River Greenway offers a delightful, easy hike along the river, perfect for a quick nature fix. You'll wander through peaceful, heavily wooded areas and enjoy refreshing views of the Sandy River, with the impressive Broughton Bluff providing a dramatic backdrop. This easy 1.2-mile (1.9 km) route involves only 21 feet (7 metres) of elevation gain, making it a comfortable 29-minute stroll for nearly everyone.
Starting at Glenn Otto Park, you'll find ample parking, though it can fill up quickly on sunny summer weekends due to its popularity. While the park offers easy river access, be mindful that the water can be cold with strong currents, and riverside areas might be rocky and slippery. This trail is ideal for a relaxed outing, especially if you're looking for beginner hikes in the area.
This greenway is more than just a short loop; it's part of a larger network, including the Ch'ak Ch'ak Trail, which connects to the regional 40 Mile Loop trail system. The park itself is nestled between the Sandy River and Beaver Creek, offering family-friendly amenities like picnic areas and a playground, making it a great destination for a casual day out near the Portland Metro Area.
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22
hikers
6.98km
01:58
150m
150m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
15
hikers
5.23km
01:29
120m
120m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
18
hikers
5.30km
01:26
70m
70m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Round Lake Upper Dam in Camas holds back Round Lake and Lacamas Lake in Lacamas Park. It was built in 1883 for a paper mill; the wooden dam was replaced by a concrete and steel structure in 1935, which raised the lake level by about 12 feet. Today, this area is popular for fishing rainbow and brown trout, bluegill, and bass, while hikers and picnickers have access to benches, grills, and restrooms.
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Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge spans 1,049 acres along the Columbia River. This refuge, part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, features riparian corridors, wetlands, and Oregon white oak stands. There was a major restoration project that removed 2 miles of levees to reconnect 965 acres of floodplain to the river.
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The Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail is a well-used trail that runs along the Columbia River. It is a popular path, so it is likely you will see others out enjoying the path, but it is a wide path, so there is more than enough room for everyone to enjoy it. The path is mostly flat and packed gravel, so it is not challenging and you are rewarded with great river views.
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Round Lakes Upper Dam is an old dam that was built to provide power for a paper mill. There is currently a project in the works to create a fish passage.
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The Camas Potholes draw in swimmers during hot summer days. Some jump from moderately high cliffs into the waters of Lacamas Creek. The unique water flow from the Lacamas Lake outlet dam has carved a few potholes in the rocks, ranging from 3 to 10 feet wide and 3 to 13 feet deep. Unfortunately, the Camas Potholes have been the site of several injuries and fatalities due to falls and drowning.
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The Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail is a well-used trail that runs along the Columbia River. It is a popular path, so it is likely you will see others out enjoying the path, but it is a wide path, so there is more than enough room for everyone to enjoy it. The path is mostly flat and packed gravel, so it is not challenging and you are rewarded with great river views.
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Explore the forests and scenic lakeside trails of Lacamas Regional Park. Spot local wildlife and soak in gorgeous mountain views as you hike through this nature-rich park just outside Camas, Washington.
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Lake to Lake Trail is a gorgeous trail in the Lacamas Regional Park with an abundance of striking scenery, from rapid rivers to forests and diverse wildlife.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many bus-accessible hiking trails are there in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
There are 8 hiking trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy strolls to moderate loops.
What kind of terrain can I expect on bus-accessible trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
The trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge are generally flat and accessible, primarily surfaced with compacted gravel. This makes them suitable for various fitness levels and provides easy walking with minimal elevation change. The refuge itself is a restored Columbia River floodplain, featuring wetlands, shallow ponds, marshes, and riparian woodlands.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes accessible by bus in the refuge?
Yes, many trails are family-friendly due to their flat terrain. An excellent option is the Washougal River Greenway loop from Camas, which is an easy 3.7 km hike. The refuge's accessible nature makes it ideal for families with children.
Can I bring my dog on trails accessible from bus stations?
The Refuge River Trail, which parallels the Columbia River and meanders into the refuge's interior, is a multi-use trail that allows for dog walking. However, it's always best to check specific trail regulations on site or via the official refuge website for any updates or restrictions regarding pets. For general information, you can visit fws.gov.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks I can see along these trails?
The refuge offers diverse landscapes including wetlands, shallow ponds, and riparian woodlands. You can enjoy views of the Columbia River, and on clear days, even Mount Hood from certain vantage points like the Mountain View Trail. The Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides a great overview of these features.
When is the best time to visit Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge for hiking?
The refuge is a year-round destination, but the experience changes seasonally. Spring and fall are excellent for birdwatching, as the refuge is a significant area for migratory birds. Some sections may have seasonal closures between October 1 and April 30 to protect wintering waterfowl, so it's advisable to check current conditions before your visit on the official refuge website.
Are there any circular routes available from bus stops?
Yes, several circular routes are available. For example, the Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a moderate 10.4 km loop, offering a comprehensive experience of the refuge's diverse habitats. Another option is the Washougal River Greenway loop from Camas, which is an easier 3.7 km loop.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see while hiking in the refuge?
Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for wildlife. You can expect to see a wide variety of birds, including great blue herons, geese, ducks, and raptors, with over 200 species recorded. Beyond birds, the refuge is home to over 20 species of mammals and 15 species of reptiles and amphibians, making it an exceptional location for nature observation.
What is the difficulty level of the bus-accessible trails?
The majority of bus-accessible trails in the refuge are rated as 'easy,' with 7 out of 8 routes falling into this category. There is also one 'moderate' route, the Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, which is longer but still features minimal elevation gain. This makes the area suitable for hikers of all experience levels.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the bus-accessible trails in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.65 stars. Reviewers often praise the accessible, flat trails, the abundance of wildlife, and the scenic views of the Columbia River and surrounding natural landscapes. The ease of access via public transport is also frequently highlighted as a major benefit.
Are there any longer hikes available from bus stations for more experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy, the Hiking loop from Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge offers a longer, moderate experience at approximately 10.4 km. For those looking to extend their journey, the Lewis and Clark Discovery Greenway Trail connects with the refuge's internal trail system, offering a more extensive hiking experience, though specific bus access points for its full length would need to be verified locally.
Are there any facilities like restrooms or maps available at the trailheads?
Yes, the refuge provides amenities for visitors. You can typically find restrooms and interpretive kiosks with maps at the main access points. Boot brushes are also available to help prevent the spread of invasive species. For more detailed information on visitor services, you can check fws.gov.
Most popular routes in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge
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