Catherine Creek is the name of a small creek on the Washington side of the Columbia River Gorge, and also the popular name for the general location, which is one of the best-known and most popular wildflower-viewing sites and hiking areas in the Gorge. Wildflower season begins in earnest here before the beginning of March and extends into May.
Directions: From Portland, drive west to Hood River. Cross the toll bridge (75 cents) to the Washington side. Turn right on Highway 14 (eastbound) and proceed through Bingen. Go past Courtney Road and Coyote Wall. At 5.8 miles from the bridge, turn left on Old Highway 8 at Rowland Lake. Follow this road 1.5 miles and you'll come to the Catherine Creek parking lot.