Hamilton Mountain

The walk starts at the Hamilton Mountain Trailhead in Beacon Rock State Park, off State Route 14. The Hamilton Mountain Trail climbs through forest to a viewpoint of Hardy Falls, about a mile in, and then to Rodney Falls, where a short side path leads to the Pool of the Winds. Beyond the falls and the junction with the Hardy Creek Trail it climbs in steep switchbacks, along the tops of cliffs, to the summit of Hamilton Mountain, 3 miles from the start. Return the same way.

It is 5.5 miles (8.8 km) round trip with 1,870 feet (570 m) of climbing; allow about 4 hours. The grade is Moderate: a sustained climb, steep in its upper half.

The stretch past Hardy Falls and Rodney Falls is badly eroded and can be dangerous in the wet. The upper trail runs along cliff edges, so take care, above all with children. To make a loop, carry on for three quarters of a mile to the saddle beyond the summit and come down by the Hardy Creek Trail, which makes 7.5 miles in all.

A Discover Pass is needed to park: $10 for a day or $45 for a year. The park is open from 8 a.m. until dusk all year. Dogs are allowed on a leash. A burn ban was in force when checked on October 1, 2026.

Route drawn by Global Adventurer along OpenStreetMap paths (© OpenStreetMap contributors, ODbL), with figures worked out from it. Check the forecast and the ground on the day: paths change.