Just a few miles east of Stevenson [1] is the little town of Carson, known for its hot springs [2] and as an entry point into Gifford Pinchot National Forest [3]. The drive north from Carson to the east side of Mount St. Helens [4] offers photographic and recreational opportunities aplenty.
For a walk far on the wild side, plan your trip to catch Carson’s Bigfoot Daze festival, held on the last weekend of August every year. The wacky festival features talks and panels on the legendary beast plus a costume contest, sasquatch yell contest, and a chili cook-off.
Links:
[1] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/columbia-gorge-and-wine-country/the-columbia-gorge/stevenson
[2] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/columbia-gorge-and-wine-country/the-columbia-gorge/carson/sights
[3] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/mount-adams
[4] http://www.moon.com/destinations/washington/south-cascades/mount-st-helens-national-volcanic-monument