Columbia Gorge

Have you ever looked at the dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations of the Columbia River Gorge and wondered how they came to be? This May, during the White Salmon Wildflower Festival, you’re invited to step into “deep time” on a guided geology walk with professional geologist Lloyd DeKay. This is more than a hike—it’s a journey through millions of years of volcanic eruptions, massive floods, and the relentless shaping power of water and time. A Walk Through Ancient Landscapes Set against the stunning backdrop of Coyote Wall, this experience explores the interconnected terrain of the Labyrinth and Syncline—some of the most geologically fascinating features in the Gorge.   Participants will: Walk the scenic roadway and venture into the Labyrinth Observe unique rock formations and folded layers up close Learn how lava flows, Ice Age floods, and tectonic forces shaped the land Pause for a bring-your-own snack/lunch beside peaceful Labyrinth Creek Expect a moderately active outing of 2+ hours and 2+ miles round trip, with some light rock scrambling along the way. Where: Meet-up at the Mt Adams Visitor Info Ctr at Mile Post 65, Highway 14, Lot 1 Heritage Plaza Parking, White Salmon When: Meet by 7:45 Sharp | May 9 and May 16 | 2026 Cost: Free Sign Up: White Salmon Wildflower Week Events - Scroll down that page to sign up – each date will fill at 15 participants. See the Gorge Differently By the end of this walk, you won’t just see the Gorge—you’ll understand it. Layers of basalt, carved valleys, and scattered boulders will tell a story of fire, flood, and time on a scale that reshapes your perspective. Whether you’re a curious local or a visiting wildflower enthusiast, this is a rare opportunity to connect more deeply with the landscape that defines our region. Come ready to hike, learn, and never look at the Gorge the same way again. Meet Your Guide: Lloyd DeKay Lloyd DeKay brings a lifetime of geological expertise and local passion to this experience. BA in Earth Sciences – California State University, Northridge MS in Geological Oceanography – University of Rhode Island 27-year career in global exploration with Gulf/Chevron Since moving to the Gorge in 2007, Lloyd has become a cornerstone of the local naturalist and geology community. He serves as President of the Columbia River Gorge Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute and has led extensive efforts to expand educational resources, including interactive maps, field guides, and regional programming. Locally, he’s also a co-founder of community initiatives in White Salmon and Bingen and a frequent field trip leader for Oregon State University’s Gorge Naturalist Program.

Have you ever looked at the dramatic cliffs and unusual rock formations of the Columbia River Gorge and wondered how they came to be? This May, during the White Salmon Wildflower Festival, you’re invited to step into “deep time” on a guided geology walk with professional geologist Lloyd DeKay. This is more than a hike—it’s a journey through millions of years of volcanic eruptions, massive floods, and the relentless shaping power of water and time. A Walk Through Ancient Landscapes Set against the stunning backdrop of Coyote Wall, this experience explores the interconnected terrain of the Labyrinth and Syncline—some of the most geologically fascinating features in the Gorge.   Participants will: Walk the scenic roadway and venture into the Labyrinth Observe unique rock formations and folded layers up close Learn how lava flows, Ice Age floods, and tectonic forces shaped the land Pause for a bring-your-own snack/lunch beside peaceful Labyrinth Creek Expect a moderately active outing of 2+ hours and 2+ miles round trip, with some light rock scrambling along the way. Where: Meet-up at the Mt Adams Visitor Info Ctr at Mile Post 65, Highway 14, Lot 1 Heritage Plaza Parking, White Salmon When: Meet by 7:45 Sharp | May 9 and May 16 | 2026 Cost: Free Sign Up: White Salmon Wildflower Week Events - Scroll down that page to sign up – each date will fill at 15 participants. See the Gorge Differently By the end of this walk, you won’t just see the Gorge—you’ll understand it. Layers of basalt, carved valleys, and scattered boulders will tell a story of fire, flood, and time on a scale that reshapes your perspective. Whether you’re a curious local or a visiting wildflower enthusiast, this is a rare opportunity to connect more deeply with the landscape that defines our region. Come ready to hike, learn, and never look at the Gorge the same way again. Meet Your Guide: Lloyd DeKay Lloyd DeKay brings a lifetime of geological expertise and local passion to this experience. BA in Earth Sciences – California State University, Northridge MS in Geological Oceanography – University of Rhode Island 27-year career in global exploration with Gulf/Chevron Since moving to the Gorge in 2007, Lloyd has become a cornerstone of the local naturalist and geology community. He serves as President of the Columbia River Gorge Chapter of the Ice Age Floods Institute and has led extensive efforts to expand educational resources, including interactive maps, field guides, and regional programming. Locally, he’s also a co-founder of community initiatives in White Salmon and Bingen and a frequent field trip leader for Oregon State University’s Gorge Naturalist Program.