Falling trees, landslides, and debris flows are more likely in the burned areas because of unstable soil due to less vegetation to hold it in place. We encourage hikers to be extra alert when hiking in burned areas in the Gorge. Along the ridge there is a trail that heads Southeast that eventually goes back to Wahkeena Falls, which would make a very nice loop if you have two vehicles. This trail was impacted by the 2017 Eagle Creek fire. The actual end of the trail is out on a ridge that you can access through brush, but the view is obstructed. The day I visited was very cloudy, and visibility was low. The views are spectacular on clear days in both East and West directions. Rarely is such an intimidating path so frequented by hikers. The trail culminates at a lofty perch, boasting magnificent views in every direction. Zion's pride and joy runs along a narrow rock fin with dizzying drop-offs on both sides.

Here is what the ridge looks like from the North end. The Angels Landing Trail is one of the most famous and thrilling hikes in the national park system. Toward the end there are several switchbacks until one final turn to the North, where the ridge comes into view. There are other rocks that get quite green and mossy. This results in some interesting looking trees. The trail is exposed because of a forest fire, and can get quite windy. The 1,600 elevation gain over 2.4 miles to the top of Angels Rest is within reach for most hikers, yet challenging enough to give any hiker a thrill when reaching the rocky, often blustery summit. There are several rocky steps along the way. About half-way up you will be able to see your destination, an outcropping of rocks. The trail climbs steadily pretty much until the very end, but remember to stop along the way and take a look at the Gorge view. About a half mile in, stop and take a look at the falls of Coopey creek, even though the view is somewhat obstructed, because once you cross the bridge, this is the last waterfall you'll see. This trail is typical of all others in the area, with beautiful trees and ground cover along the way. After parking, head over to the trailhead, and the sign provides the mileage. There is a small stream and waterfall along the way, but this trip is about the elevation gain and the nice view of the Columbia Gorge. I think our kids would like that part of the hike.This trail is a nice alternative to large crowds seeking waterfalls. If we had our kids with us we would hike to the waterfall and bridge and then turn around. Many of them didn't go the whole way up though. I wouldn't take small children though a lot of people did. We did take our time going up and took lots of pictures along the way. We took about 2 hours to get up and 1 to get down. We packed a light lunch and enjoyed our time at the top. We did make it to the top and the view was beautiful. We were quite sore the few days after the hike. I wonder if there were more rocks on the trail than usual due to rock slides with the fire and rains. The rock covered areas were difficult on the feet and calves. It was a 1600 ft elevation climb so pretty much uphill going and downhill returning. I thought it was a difficult hike, not moderate. The hike was very pretty and it had a variety of terrain which I like (rocky, dirt, rock covered). I think it is usually crowded but with so many trails still closed due to the fire it is probably more crowded than usual. The trail was much more difficult and crowded than we expected. We chose Angels Rest because it was considered 'moderate', had a waterfall, and of course the beautiful lookout at the gorge. My husband and I are not hikers, but we do enjoy the occasional hike and checking out the scenery.

Angels rest fire