Munra Point Out and Back

Dogs Leashed

Features River/Creek · Views · Waterfall · Wildflowers

This route starts from the John B Yeon Trailhead. The route has a somewhat treacherous trek up an unmaintained trail, but the 360-degree views from the top of Munra Point are well worth the steep elevation gain. The dramatic spine of three ridge lines converging to Munra Point is unlike any other view you'll see.

About 3 miles in, you'll hit the steep, unmaintained part of the Munra Point Trail. Take your time and watch your step and you'll be fine. Once towards the top there are not trees and you'll get direct sunlight on sunny days - bring water!

Although dogs are technically allowed, they may not be able to make it up the last quarter mile of the trail.

The lower level trail that parallels the interstate is great for trail running. You'll slow down to a walk or climb once you hit the halfway point of the unmaintained Munra Point Trail.

DRIVING DIRECTIONS:
John B Yeon Trailhead: Traveling east on I-84, take Exit #35/Ainsworth. Turn left at the stop sign, then immediately turn right onto the Frontage Rd. Drive east on Frontage Rd for 2.1 miles and turn right into the trailhead parking lot. The lot will be just before the road re-enters the highway.

Traveling west on I-84, take Exit #37/Warrendale. Head west on Warrendale Road for about 1/4 mile to a stop sign. Turn left, go under the freeway and turn left again onto Frontage Rd. Drive 1/4 mile east to the trailhead parking lot just before the road re-enters the highway.

THE ROUTE:
There are several ways to approach Munra Point. This route starts off on the Gorge Trail #400 on NE Frontage Rd. Take exit 35 off of I-84 that runs along the Columbia River and head east until you're almost back on the interstate.

From the trailhead, this route jumps straight on to Gorge Trail #400, stay to the left after you round the first corner and head east to get a glimpse of the beautiful Elowah Falls along the way (a 289-foot waterfall). If you want to skip the falls and take an easy, paved path along the roaring interstate, you can hop on the Historic Columbia River HWY State Trail. This trail chooses that option for the way back.

After your second river crossing, over 2 miles in, you'll take a right away from the noisy interstate and up the hill onto the unmaintained Munra Point Trail. From here, you'll do some scrambling and hit some good elevation gain. As you climb, you'll catch views along the way of the Columbia River. Just before the peak of Munra Point, you'll hit a rope tied-up to help navigate your way up and down the steepest stretch.

Once you round up to the top, you'll see three ridges converge to create Munra Point, where you can climb up to the top of the rock to get 360-degree views of the Columbia River Gorge. Look north across the river to get a good look into Washington state. Use caution as you climb to the top as it's a very steep and unforgiving drop either direction.

You can continue further on along the ridge line. This route will have you turn around at the 3.5 mile mark, to return the same way you came.

This route takes the easy route back on the Historic Columbia River HWY State Trail skipping Elowah Falls and a little distance on the way back. Alternatively, runners can choose to access Munra Point from the Wahclella Falls Trailhead which saves approximately 1 mile round trip.

Great wildflowers along the top of Munra Point if you hit the right time of year.