- Region
- Washington
- Country
- United States
- Best for
- fishing
- Best season
- Spring, Summer
- Permits
- Confirm permit requirements and acquisitio…
- Managed by
- Washington State Parks
Plan with verified data
Klickitat River trip tools
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How to get there
The Klickitat River is located in Washington State, near the Columbia River Gorge. Many access points begin in Lyle, WA, which can be reached via SR-14 or SR-142. From Portland, OR, take I-84 east to Hood River Exit #64, cross the Hood River Bridge to Washington, then turn right on Hwy. 14 towards Lyle. From The Dalles, OR, take Hwy 197 north to SR-14, then travel through Lyle.
Photo: Joe Mabel / CC BY-SA 4.0 LyleFrom Portland, take I-84 E to Hood River Exit #64, cross the Hood River Bridge, turn right (east) on Hwy. 14 for about 13 miles to the Klickitat River Bridge. Beyond the bridge, turn left (north) on Hwy. 142, then immediately left at the trailhead entrance. From Bingen/White Salmon, travel east on SR-14 approximately 9.5 miles, take the first left after crossing the Wild and Scenic Klickitat River onto SR-142, then in 0.1 miles take the first left into the parking area. From The Dalles, take US Highway 197 north to SR-14, turn left and travel about 7.5 miles to Lyle. Travel through town and take a right on SR-142 just before crossing the Klickitat River, then take the first left into the parking area. This trailhead is ADA accessible and has restroom facilities.
- Pitt
Go 10 miles north from SR-14 on SR-142. There is a parking area across the street from a row of houses. A portable toilet is available.
Photo: Unknown authorUnknown author or not provided / Public domain Klickitat Town ParkDrive 13 miles up Hwy 142 to the middle of the town of Klickitat. Look for a grocery store on the left and park just beyond it, by the small park under the trees.
- Schilling/Wahkiacus
Take Hwy. 142 about 16 miles (about 3 miles past the town of Klickitat), turn right on Horseshoe Bend Rd. and cross the bridge over the Klickitat River. In a few hundred yards, turn right on Schilling Rd., then an immediate right into a parking area. A portable toilet is available.
- Harms Rd.
From Lyle, take the Lyle-Centerville Hwy. (Glenwood Avenue, between the gas station and cafe) north for approximately 15 miles. Watch for the Klickitat Trail sign and turn left on Harms Rd. Drive north one-half mile and park just north of the trestle bridge over Swale Creek. A portable toilet is available.
- "County Park" Road
About one mile north of the Lyle trailhead on Rd. 142, an unmarked gravel road crosses the trail and gives access. Following this road leads to an undeveloped park along the river.
Sources: parks.wa.gov · Wikipedia · Wikivoyage · Klickitat Trail Conservancy. Confirm road and trailhead conditions with the managing agency before you leave.
Washington · United States · Season: Late fall through early spring
- Winter Camping
- Skiing
- Desert Hiking
- Canyoneering
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Photography
Overview
The Klickitat River, a major tributary to the Columbia, is a gem for both summer and winter steelhead, with its summer run being particularly famous. Flowing out of the Cascade Mountains, it carves a steep canyon before emptying into the Columbia near Lyle. The river's distinctive glacial tint, due to its source near Mt. Adams, can make for challenging visibility but is also part of its charm. The prime summer steelhead season runs from August through October, offering consistent opportunities for anglers to swing flies. Winter steelhead arrive later, typically from December through March. Access is generally good, with numerous public access points, campgrounds, and boat launches along Highway 142. Much of the river is floatable, though wading opportunities exist. The Klickitat caters to a range of skill levels, from those just starting with two-handed rods to seasoned veterans. While not as remote as the Grande Ronde, it still offers a rugged feel. Expect some angler pressure in popular spots, especially on weekends. A Washington State fishing license with a steelhead endorsement is required. The Klickitat provides a reliable and scenic option for pursuing both runs of steelhead, often offering a more accessible wilderness feel than some other canyon rivers.
Why it stands out
Reliable runs of both summer and winter steelhead.
Scenic canyon environment with views of Mt. Adams.
Good public access and floating opportunities.
Strong, acrobatic wild steelhead.
Consistent fishing from late summer through fall.
Know before you go
Glacial tint can affect water clarity, especially after rain or warm weather.
Can experience significant angler pressure in popular sections.
Road access can be steep and winding in parts.
Potential for high water conditions during winter and spring runoff.
Limited services along the upper river.
Planning notes
Where: Washington, United States Best season: Late fall through early spring Good for: Fishing Featured on: Top 10 Steelhead Rivers in the Pacific Northwest (#4) Access point: Klickitat River, Washington, USA
Check current permits, closures and fire restrictions with the managing agency before you commit to dates.
Field notes
- Reliable runs of both summer and winter steelhead.
- Scenic canyon environment with views of Mt. Adams.
- Good public access and floating opportunities.
- Strong, acrobatic wild steelhead.
- Consistent fishing from late summer through fall.
Where on earth
Satellite imagery flying in from a world view to Klickitat River, United States. Use the + / − buttons, or click the map to zoom with your scroll wheel; drag to pan and pinch to zoom on touch.
Coordinates
- Decimal degrees
- 46.0823, -121.2445
- Latitude (DMS)
- 46° 4′ 56.4″ N
- Longitude (DMS)
- 121° 14′ 40.2″ W
Coordinates are an access-point reference for Klickitat River, not a route. Carry a paper map and confirm trailhead or put-in access with the managing agency before you go.
Topic summary
The Klickitat River, a major tributary to the Columbia, is a gem for both summer and winter steelhead, with its summer run being particularly famous.
Key takeaways
- Region: Washington
- Country: United States
- Best season: Late fall through early spring
- Good for: fishing
- Coordinates: 46.082, -121.245
Intended uses
fishing
Climate suitability
Late fall through early spring
Keep planning
Popular pursuits at Klickitat River
- Winter Camping
Cold-season travel and camp craft; layering matters more than mileage.
- Skiing
Ski-touring access when the road closes for the season.
- Desert Hiking
Water carries and heat management drive the plan.
- Canyoneering
Narrows, downclimbs, and flash-flood timing.
- Canoeing
Paddle routes, portages, and put-ins.
- Fishing
Resident gamefish, seasons, and the water that holds them.
Animals around Klickitat River
Exploring the Klickitat Trail
The Klickitat State Park Trail offers a 31-mile journey along an old railroad corridor, connecting the towns of Lyle and Goldendale. This long-distance trail follows the Klickitat River to Swale Creek and through Swale Canyon. The terrain features oak and pine forests, especially prominent in the canyons, which are also known for abundant wildflowers in spring. East of Swale Canyon, the landscape transitions to rustic farms, open fields, and occasional grazing livestock. The trail provides expansive skies and high-desert scenery, making it suitable for activities like biking, hiking, walking, rolling, and running. It also serves as an excellent location for bird watching and general wildlife viewing. In winter, the trail remains open for ungroomed snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures, offering a different seasonal experience.
Natural Features and Accessibility
The Klickitat State Park Trail is characterized by its diverse natural environment, including creeks, rivers, fields, forests, meadows, and mountain views. Seasonal wildflowers add significant beauty, especially in spring. Wildlife viewing opportunities are present along the entire route. While most of the trail offers a remote experience, the Lyle Trailhead provides the most developed access. It features ADA accessible parking, a bathroom, and potable water. Cell reception and potable water are not reliably available at other access points. This trail is managed for day-use only, and dogs are permitted on a leash. Fire restrictions are strict, with a year-round burn ban and seasonal closures in Swale Canyon due to fire danger.
Trail Conditions and Seasonal Closures
The Klickitat Trail is open for travel for much of the year, but specific sections are subject to seasonal closures. The Swale Canyon portion of the trail closes annually from June 21st through October 8th due to high fire danger. During this period, a bypass route is necessary to traverse the full length of the trail. The full 31-mile trail is accessible from October 9th through June 20th. Visitors should be aware that the trail surface varies, and specific sections are detailed on a surface rating map. Certain areas, like the segment north of the Klickitat Trailhead, currently have impassable bridges, requiring rerouting. Planning ahead, especially for longer trips, is essential given the lack of amenities in remote sections.
Route options
- Full Klickitat Trail31 miles
A 31-mile converted railroad bed trail offering diverse scenery from river canyons to farmlands. Open in its entirety from October 9th through June 20th. During the Swale Canyon closure, a bypass is required.
- Swale Canyon Bypass (Seasonal)
When Swale Canyon is closed, follow the trail to mile 13 at Durkee Road. Take State Route 14 north for 3.5 miles. Go right onto Horseshoe Bend Road to cross the bridge, then a quick right onto Schilling Road. Take a left to reconnect with the trail and bypass the closed canyon segment.
- Lyle Trailhead to Fisher Hill Trestle1.5 miles
An improved section of the trail, ADA accessible, suitable for easy walks, runs, or biking near the Lyle Trailhead.
- Wahkiacus EastboundEasy
A scenic and very easy walking route from Wahkiacus Trailhead heading east through Swale Canyon.
- Wahkiacus Westbound3 miles
A scenic 3-mile hike along the river from Wahkiacus Trailhead heading west. This route leads to a missing trestle, requiring an out-and-back return.
Sample itineraries
- Full Trail Traverse (Non-Closure Season) · 1 day
Complete the entire 31-mile Klickitat Trail in one day. This is best done during the open season (Oct 9 - June 20) to avoid the Swale Canyon bypass. Plan for a full day of biking or a challenging long-distance run/hike, ensuring sufficient water and supplies as amenities are limited outside of Lyle.
- Swale Canyon Experience (East Side) · 1 day
Access the trail from Wahkiacus Trailhead and head east. This section offers scenic and easy walking through Swale Canyon, ideal for a shorter day hike or a leisurely bike ride during the open season. Return to Wahkiacus Trailhead.
- Lyle Trailhead Family Outing · 1 day
Start at the Lyle Trailhead to take advantage of accessible parking, bathrooms, and potable water. Enjoy the improved 1.5-mile section to the Fisher Hill Trestle, suitable for all ages and accessibility needs. Return to Lyle Trailhead for amenities.
Seasonal conditions
Spring
March - May
This season brings an abundance of wildflowers, particularly in the canyon areas. The trail is generally fully open. Temperatures are typically mild, making it ideal for hiking and biking.
Summer
June - August
From June 21st, the Swale Canyon portion of the trail closes annually due to fire danger, requiring a bypass for full traversal. Temperatures can be high in the high-desert environment. Cell reception and potable water are scarce, so preparation is critical.
Fall
September - November
Swale Canyon reopens on October 9th, allowing full trail access. Fall colors may be present, particularly in the oak and pine forests. Temperatures begin to cool, providing comfortable conditions for activities.
Winter
December - February
The trail remains open for ungroomed snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. Specific operational changes or closures due to winter conditions may occur; consult the managing agency's Winter Schedule.
| Season | Window | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Spring | March - May | This season brings an abundance of wildflowers, particularly in the canyon areas. The trail is generally fully open. Temperatures are typically mild, making it ideal for hiking and biking. |
| Summer | June - August | From June 21st, the Swale Canyon portion of the trail closes annually due to fire danger, requiring a bypass for full traversal. Temperatures can be high in the high-desert environment. Cell reception and potable water are scarce, so preparation is critical. |
| Fall | September - November | Swale Canyon reopens on October 9th, allowing full trail access. Fall colors may be present, particularly in the oak and pine forests. Temperatures begin to cool, providing comfortable conditions for activities. |
| Winter | December - February | The trail remains open for ungroomed snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. Specific operational changes or closures due to winter conditions may occur; consult the managing agency's Winter Schedule. |
Permits, fees & closures
Confirm permit requirements and acquisition with Washington State Parks.
Official source: Klickitat State Park Trail - Washington State Parks · Verified September 4, 2026
Hazards & regulations
- Cell reception is generally not available at trail access points, except for the Lyle trailhead, particularly in remote areas like Harms Road Trailhead.
- Potable water is not available at trail access points, except for the Lyle trailhead. Carry sufficient water for long-distance activities.
- Swale Canyon is closed annually from June 21st through October 8th due to fire danger. Plan for the bypass during this period.
- Fires are not permitted at any time due to a burn ban. Strict adherence to fire regulations is required.
- Portions of the trail, such as north of the Klickitat Trailhead and west of Wahkiacus Trailhead, have missing bridges, requiring re-routing or out-and-back travel.
- Encountering grazing cows in eastern sections of the trail is possible.
What to pack for Klickitat River
- Sufficient potable water
- Navigation tools (map, GPS, or downloaded maps)
- First-aid kit
- Sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses)
- Bicycle and helmet (for biking)
- Hiking boots or sturdy shoes
- Snowshoes or cross-country skis (winter)
- Binoculars (for bird and wildlife watching)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Warm layers (weather dependent)
- Emergency whistle
- Snacks and energy food
Klickitat River FAQ
- Are fires allowed on the Klickitat State Park Trail?
- No, fires are not permitted at any time due to a burn ban.
- Is the Klickitat Trail open year-round?
- The trail is mostly open year-round, but the Swale Canyon portion is closed annually from June 21st through October 8th for fire danger. The full trail is traversable with a bypass during this period, or entirely open from Oct 9 - June 20.
- Are dogs allowed on the trail?
- Yes, dogs are allowed on the Klickitat Trail but must be kept on a leash.
- Is there cell service on the trail?
- Cell reception is generally not available at trail access points, except for the Lyle trailhead. Plan accordingly for remote sections.
- Are there restrooms and water available?
- Potable water and ADA accessible restrooms are only available at the Lyle Trailhead. Other access points lack these amenities.
- What activities can be done on the trail in winter?
- In winter, the trail is open for ungroomed snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures.