This stroll over a plateau in the eastern gorge is a great hike to view the geological reminders of the ice age floods which created the Gorge. Views up and down the Gorge show the rolling hills and valleys across the river, but also the depressions, now “kolk” lakes, created by the floods. In late spring, the balsamroot and other wildflowers are abundant and help to create a palette of warm tones for photographers and hikers.
You can’t talk about the Rowena Plateau without talking about the Tom McCall Nature Preserve. The Nature Conservancy has worked to preserve the fauna and flora here. Ecologists work to monitor rare plant populations. Starting in spring, volunteers lead interpretive hikes.
Adventures Northwest 