Outbound Collective logo

Hawk Creek Cave

Creston, Washington

3.8/5
based on 9 reviews

Details

Distance

5 miles

Elevation Gain

900 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Rose Freeman

Explore ancient Hawk Creek Cave with expansive views of the Columbia River. See Hawk Creek Falls. Hike along a sandy beach. Distance: 5.0 miles round trip, 900 feet elevation gain.

The ancient rock walls, cave, and falls of Hawk Creek provide an unreal day hike experience! The best time to hike to Hawk Creek cave is early spring/summer before the water level of Lake Roosevelt is back to it's regular level by July. Any age explorer will be inspired on this adventure!

Drive to Hawk Creek trailhead (47.8109, -118.3104) and begin hiking on a well marked fisherman's trail through the pine trees. Take in the views of the creek behind you and the ancient rock walls through the canyon. When the trail tapers off, cut down to the beach and continue hiking on the sand for 2 miles. It is best to hike here in spring before the water levels rise and the beach is inaccessible. When you reach the end of the beach, take the game trail up through the canyon to the right. This trail becomes hard to follow up through the tall grass, but continue upward and onward toward the rock formation on the ridge above! When you reach the plateau, take a left and look for the large rock cave. Enjoy lunch in the cave and take in the views of the Columbia River! Return the way you came.

When you return to the trailhead, make sure to stop by Hawk Creek campground on your way out and check out Hawk Creek falls! We hiked here in late February and the falls were roaring into the turquoise pool. If you choose to stay overnight, the campground is open year round!

Our favorite place to stop on our way home is Edna's to get shakes and fries! Happy adventuring!

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Chillin
Camping
Fishing
Photography
Kayaking
Hiking
Bathrooms
Beach
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
River
Romantic
Scenic
Waterfall

Hawk Creek Cave Reviews

We finally found the cave, the directions could us a lot of work! For one thing, the spot you marked on the gps is way way off, no trail near there, the trail begins at the boat launch.. another thing, you need to state that the beach looks like it ends around a half a mile in, but you need to keep going! We thought that was were we were suppose to go up.. we went up there and did a lot of extra climbing that wasn't necessary! Awesome spot though! Just need to update this soon so someone else doesn't get lost.

Loved this gorgeous hike! It's glute workout up the hill, but well worth it. Take sometime to walk the sandy beaches of lake too!

Even though I went on a rainy day, I loved being able to see a waterfall, hike barefoot on a beach, and hang out in a cave all in one afternoon! I also had a little trouble finding the right trail, but that just added to the adventure!

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Hike through Muley Canyon

Swim at 'The Cove'

Deep Water Solo at Banks Lake

Steamboat Rock

Hog Lake Loop

Kayak Deer Lake