Columbia National Wildlife Refuge

This trail is a 1.0 mile that primarily follows Crab Creek, immersing one in its riparian habitat. With scattered willows and large patches of wild rose and golden currant, this trail is a favorite among birders. For an extended hike, you may follow an additional 3/4-mile section of trail connecting the Crab Creek Trail to the Rimrock and Marsh Loop trailheads. Caution: Where the trail climbs out of the marsh is steep and the substrate is not stable. Proceed with caution. This is also the only part of the trail that is difficult.

The Marsh Loop is about 1.8-miles-long and has little elevation change; most of the trail is flat. This trail follows Crab Creek and circles two marshes, remaining in the lowlands near wetland habitat. The trail is open from March 1 through September 30. Allow an hour.

The trail is 3.3-miles-long with an elevation gain of 200 feet. Although starting out near Crab Creek, this trail promptly leads into the drier shrub-steppe habitat. After meandering past striking columnar basalt formations, the trail ascends, circling the top of a mesa and provides a beautiful view of the surrounding refuge landscape. You have to return back along the same trail. Allow 2-3 hours.