Hikes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Activities in Gifford Pinchot National Forest
There are more miles to cover in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest than you could do in one trip, but don’t let the variety overwhelm you. Choosing the perfect adventures in this gorgeous region is easy with our extensive collection of route guides. Take easy lakeside walks, watching the reflections of the mountains quiver in the surface. Summit sky-high glaciated peaks, looking into the craters of still-active volcanoes. Hike through underground tunnels created by lava flow. Toss on your pack and lose yourself in the woods for a week, or take advantage of easy trails to introduce your kids to the outdoors. There’s something for everyone here.
A perk of hiking in Washington is the impressive number of backcountry camping spots scattered throughout the state. Toss on your pack to make a weekend of it! Many trails are also great for mountain biking, horseback riding, fishing, or other outdoor activities. The sky’s the limit in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
15 Amazing Hikes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Ready to start exploring? We’re making it easy to get going with 15 of our favorite hikes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Our list includes short, laidback trails to intense treks and everything in between. Take a quick day hike or plan a longer backpacking adventure, getting away for the weekend or for as long as you like. What stays consistent? The natural beauty of the forest all around you, from the quiet mountaintops to the shimmering Columbia River.
Our top hikes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest are chosen to give you an idea of what makes this region so great to explore. While starting with these 15 hikes is a great way to experience the forest, remember that we’ve got many, many more route guides in the forest and Washington in general if you want to keep going.
- High Rock Trail - High Rock is high, indeed. This viewpoint rises high above the surrounding South Cascades, giving you the best view you can find in the area! The views are truly panoramic and the trail to reach them isn’t that difficult. At 5.1 km in length and with moderate elevation gain, it’s a suitable trek for most skill levels and for active families.
- Hidden Falls via Tarbell Trail - Hidden Falls via Tarbell Trail is a moderate hike that features beautiful waterfalls, and longer adventures on the Tarbell Trail can take you very far and through changing scenery. In this section, you’ll explore a very lush forest, check out multiple waterfalls, and stroll through clear-cut areas that open up your view.
- Ape Caves Trail - The Ape Caves Trail takes you into a lava tube discovered in 1951, created by an eruption of nearby Mount St. Helens. At 4.0 km long, this trail is the longest continuous lava tube in the continental United States and the third-longest lava tube in North America. Nearly 200,000 people hike through the tube each year, making this a very popular trail.
- Mount Adams South Climb - The Mount Adams South Climb is the least technical approach to Mount Adams’ summit, leading you to the top over the course of 17.5 km and over 2,042 m of elevation gain. While this is the least challenging way up Mount Adams, it’s still best taken on by experienced adventurers with the proper gear and a healthy dose of gumption.
- Panther Creek Falls - Panther Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall that cascades over a mossy slope. The hike to the viewpoint for the falls is extremely easy and quick, making it possible to enjoy for most adventurers. There’s a nice viewing deck for the falls that you can take advantage of.
- Lewis River Falls Trail - Lewis River Falls Trail is a delightful hike in every way. The trail is in great condition, the scenery is immaculate, and despite the heavy traffic, visiting on a weekday or early morning/late afternoon can score you some solitude. There are also multiple access points for this route to shorten or lengthen it.
- Dog Mountain Trail - Dog Mountain Trail is one of the most sought-after hikes in the Columbia River Gorge. This 10.5 km loop trek is considered hard, with a straight-up stair stepper climb required. However, the changing scenery and plant life make for a very enjoyable trip well worth the crowds. The hike begins with temperate and high-desert flora, but it changes to a cool rainforest and then ends in flower-filled meadows with mountain views.
- Beacon Rock Trail - Beacon Rock Trail takes you through Beacon Rock State Park to a fantastic viewpoint over the Columbia River Gorge. This 2.4 km out and back route is less of a hike in the classic sense and more of a pleasant walk with a gentle, consistent incline. The route is paved or on a boardwalk, making it a nice choice for those who prefer even footing.
- Mount Saint Helens Summit via Monitor Ridge Trail - The view from Mount Saint Helens is very impressive, and it should be on the bucket list of every campable adventurer. The Monitor Ridge approach is challenging, but it requires no technical climbing skills. Take on a big adventure and earn the chance to gaze down into the glaciated crater of the volcano.
- Johnston Ridge Observatory Trail - Not quite ready to climb Mount Saint Helens? Admire it from the Johnston Ridge Observatory. This very quick and simple walk takes you through the observatory over a 0.8 km with almost no elevation gain. Part of the trail is wheelchair accessible and the entire path is very family-friendly.
- Three Corner Rock - Three Corner Rock is a unique rock formation atop a hill that overlooks Mount Adams, Mount Rainier, and Mount Saint Helens. It’s a moderate hike, but the views are what you’d expect of a much more intensive trek. On a clear day, this is a totally camera-worthy viewpoint!
- Moulton Falls - The hike to Moulton Falls on Lewis River Trail is an easy hike suitable for all skill levels and ages. You’ll hike along a mossy cliff with the river flowing beside you, having the chance to relax at viewpoints and benches on the way. It’s peaceful but also offers the chance to adventure a little if you take side trails to Big Tree Falls or up the Bells Mountain Trail.
- Takhlakh Lake and Meadows Trail - The 5.3 km loop hike around Takhlakh Lake and the Takh Takh Meadows is a unique hike in the best ways. The highlight of the trek is a climb up an old lava flow for views of Mount Rainier, a uniquely southwestern Washington experience. The hike doesn’t tend to be very busy despite its fantastic views.
- Ape Canyon Trail - Ape Canyon Trail is well worth the effort it might require! This hike takes you through a wonderful section of old-growth forest (one of the few remaining stands near Mount Saint Helens) atop a butte with great views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams.
- Spirit Falls Trail - Spirit Falls is a stunning spot. The falls are tucked into the forest off the beaten path, hidden in the moss of the trees until you’re right in front of them. The falls are stellar in the warmer months, but they’re especially impressive when they’re surrounded by crystalline white in the winter.
Scroll down to see the full list of hiking trails in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
When is the Best Time to Hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Gifford Pinchot National Forest generally experiences warm, mild summers and cool winters with lots of precipitation. While you should be prepared for rain any time of the year, visiting in the summer months of July and August tend to give the warmest, driest weather. Shoulder season (spring and fall) can bring heavier rain and snow, and winter tends to be snowy and cold.
While the summer months offer the best weather, they do also bring the heaviest crowds. If you’re okay with occasionally cooler or wetter conditions, visiting in June or mid-September can give you more privacy on the trails while still offering suitable hiking weather. If you’re hiking to enjoy golden larches, visits in late September and early October are usually best.
Other Outdoor Activities in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
While the trails are excellent, hiking is not the only way to explore the Gifford Pinchot National Forest! This region boasts plenty of space for other outdoor activities.
Adventurers on two wheels can take advantage of the many mountain bike and dirt bike paths. Those with four-legged friends can explore horse and dog-friendly trails. Fishers will find lakes stocked with trout, and campers will be able to choose from many sites. Many hiking paths can be extended for backpacking trips thanks to the ease of backcountry camping in the forest. In the winter, skiers, snowshoers, mushers, sledders, and snowmobilers can make use of the region’s snowfall.
How to Plan a Trip to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
A trip to the Gifford Pinchot National Forest is a worthwhile venture, but you’ll want to put enough time and energy into planning to make sure your trip runs the way you want it to. You’ll need a Northwest Forest Pass for many trails in the park, and some require a Discover Pass. If you plan on camping, make sure you plan out your campsites beforehand and check which ones are walk-up and which require advance booking.
Some popular trails have limited parking available, so try to plan your busiest hikes as early in the day as you can. Additionally, the forest roads that service many trailheads are subject to potholes and poor conditions. Planning to have a high-clearance 4WD vehicle for your time in the park is essential if you want to hike trails serviced by certain forest roads.
Gifford Pinchot National Forest Adventure Tours
Some of us love trip planning and some of us just… don’t. Take the stress out of your trip with an excerpt-planned adventure tour, letting you let go and focus on the fun stuff. Check out some incredible adventure tours in United States.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
Can you hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
Of course! There are lots and lots of trails worth exploring in the forest, and hopefully this guide can help you start your hiking adventures.
Are there bears in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
Yes, there are bears in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Be bear aware and practice bear safety while you visit.
What kinds of animals are in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
Some of the animals that live in the forest are deer, elk, mountain lions, black bears, coyotes, birds of prey, salmon, and many more.
Where is Gifford Pinchot National Forest?
Gifford Pinchot National Forest is located in Southwestern Washington State, USA.
Explore other great hiking regions in Washington State:
Or check out other amazing hiking regions in the United States.
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Route guides for Hiking in Gifford Pinchot National Forest
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High Rock Lookout Trail Route Guide
High Rock is high, indeed. This viewpoint soars above the surrounding region of the South Cascades, giving you the best view you can find in the area! The views are truly panoramic and the trail to reach them isn’t that difficult. At 3.2mi in length and with moderate elevation gain, it’s a suitable trail for most skill levels and for active families. You’ll climb up Sawtooth Ridge to a fire cabin, where you can relax and savor the sightlines.
Expect heavy traffic on this hike, making a visit during the week or early in the morning a good choice. Most of the trail is wide, save for a few skinner sections. That being said, no part of the trail is highly exposed.
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Hidden Falls via Tarbell Trail Route Guide
Hidden Falls via Tarbell Trail is a moderate 10.9mi hike in Yacolt Burn State Park. This hike features waterfalls, but longer adventures on the Tarbell Trail can take you very far and through changing scenery. In this section, you’ll stroll through a very lush forest, check out multiple waterfalls, and explore clear-cut areas that open up your view. There are a few steep sections where poles would be helpful. These sections may be too steep for younger children.
The trail lacks shade in the clear-cut areas and can get quite hot, so prepare accordingly if you’re hiking on a sunny day. Long pants are also recommended for short sections with poison ivy in the bushes- staying on the trail is a must!
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Ape Caves Trail Route Guide
The Ape Caves Trail takes you into a lava tube discovered in 1951. The tubes were created by an eruption of nearby Mount St. Helens. At 2.5mi long, this trail is the longest continuous lava tube in the continental United States and the third-longest lava tube in North America. Nearly 200,000 people hike through the tube each year, making this a very popular spot to explore. The hike itself is quite easy and is suitable for all ages, although those who are claustrophobic may want to evaluate whether this is the right trail for them.
The caves are open between April and October and reservations are required to visit the cave. You’ll need one reservation per vehicle. Make your reservation on the official site.
This guide describes the route through the Lower Cave. The Upper Cave requires about 2 more hours and a bit of scrambling to complete.
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Mount Adams South Climb Route Guide
The Mount Adams South Climb is the least technical approach, leading you to the summit over the course of 10.9mi and over 6700ft of elevation gain. While this is the least challenging way up Mount Adams, it’s still best taken on by experienced adventurers with the proper gear: ice axes, crampons, mountaineering boots, and supplies to sleep overnight at Lunch Counter if they’re attempting the hike over two days instead of one. While this hike can be done in a day, doing it over two allows you to attempt the summit in the morning when the snow is firm.
Dogs are allowed on this trail but very likely won’t be able to summit with you, so we recommend leaving them at home if you intend to make a summit attempt.
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Panther Creek Falls Hike Route Guide
Panther Creek Falls is a beautiful waterfall that cascades over a mossy slope in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The hike to the viewpoint for the falls is extremely easy and quick, making it possible to enjoy for most adventurers. The trail is a mere 0.3mi long and is nearly flat. The trail is well maintained and offers a great viewing deck for the falls.
The signage for this hike is poor, but it’s not hard to find your way. Download the GPS track to help find the trailhead if you need to.
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Lewis River Falls Trail Route Guide
Lewis River Falls Trail is a delightful hike in every way. The trail is in great condition, the scenery is immaculate, and despite the heavy traffic, visiting on a weekday or early morning/late afternoon can score you some solitude. There are also multiple access points for this route to shorten or lengthen it. This guide covers the 8.6mi from the Crab Creek Trailhead to the Upper Lewis River Falls, which is a moderate trip.
You can start from the Lower Falls Campground to shorten your trip a bit if desired. You can also hike further to Taitnapum Falls.
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Dog Mountain Trail Route Guide
Dog Mountain Trail is one of the most sought-after hikes in the Columbia River Gorge. This 6.5mi loop trek is considered hard, with a straight-up stair stepper climb required. More experienced hikers often find it to be very manageable, but beginners may find it quite demanding. However, the changing scenery and foliage make for a highly enjoyable trip well worth the crowds. Expect heavy traffic and come prepared for a very windy summit.
The hike begins with temperate and high-desert flora, but it gives way to a cool rainforest and then vibrant flower-filled meadows with mountain views. Make sure you have your passes in order (see Insider Tips) and arrive early to secure a spot in the parking lot.
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Beacon Rock Trail Route Guide
Beacon Rock Trail takes you through Beacon Rock State Park to an awesome viewpoint over the Columbia River Gorge. This 1.5mi out and back route is less of a hike in the classic sense and more of a pleasant walk with a gentle, consistent incline. The route is paved or on a boardwalk, making it a nice choice for those who prefer even footing. It does tend to get busy in the summertime, but visiting later in the day or in the spring and fall should earn you a quieter trail.
There is a fee to access the parking area for this hike, or you can use a Discover Pass.
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Mount Saint Helens Summit via Monitor Ridge Trail Route Guide
The view from Mount Saint Helens is a stunning sight, and it should be on the hiking list of every campable adventurer. The Monitor Ridge approach is challenging, but it requires no technical climbing skills. This approach is just over 8.0mi long and requires 4583ft of vertical gain. It’s important to plan your hike in the summertime on a day that’s as clear as possible. Weather can make this route decidedly less friendly, so you won’t want to be hiking it in snow, rain, or the relentless wind that can howl at the summit. On the flip side, the trail can be a bit loose when it’s very dry, so just watch your footing.
Bring microspikes and poles and certainly wear good boots. Prepare for the summit wind- goggles and a buff will be lifesavers.
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Johnston Ridge Observatory Trail Route Guide
The Johnston Ridge Observatory has one of the best views of Mount Saint Helens you can earn without climbing anything. This very quick and simple walk takes you through the observatory over a half-mile with almost no elevation gain. Part of the trail is wheelchair accessible and the entire path is very family-friendly. If you want to experience the beauty of Mount Saint Helens with as little work required as possible, this is definitely the way! While you observe, you can learn about the history of the volcano, including the deadly eruption that occurred in 1980.
There are restrooms at the observatory but no other amenities are available. Lodging, gifts, and food are available in nearby communities.
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Moulton Falls Hike Route Guide
The hike to Moulton Falls on Lewis River Trail is an easy hike suitable for all skill levels and ages. This 5.3mi out and back trail is a good choice year-round, and it’s shared by walkers, runners, and bikers. You’ll walk along a mossy cliff with the river beside you, having the chance to relax at viewpoints and benches on the way. It’s peaceful but also offers the chance to adventure a little if you take side trails to Big Tree Falls or up the Bells Mountain Trail to a nice viewpoint.
This trail is multi-use, so remember to share it and keep dogs leashed at all times.
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Takhlakh Lake and Meadows Trail Route Guide
The 3.3mi loop hike around Takhlakh Lake and the Takh Takh Meadows is a unique hike in the best ways. You’ll climb up an old lava flow for views of Mount Rainier, a uniquely southwestern Washington experience. The hike doesn’t tend to be very busy despite its lovely views.
This trail is rated as easy and is suitable for all skill levels and ages. The trail begins near the campground, so it’s a great choice for those camping here already, but you can also book a spot if you’re planning on visiting to make a weekend out of it. You can also fish in the lake if that interests you.
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Ape Canyon Trail Route Guide
Ape Canyon Trail is well worth the effort from anyone in the area. This hike takes you through a wonderful section of old-growth forest (one of the few remaining stands near Mount Saint Helens) atop a butte with excellent views of Mount Rainier and Mount Adams.
The hike is rated as hard with 2083ft of elevation gain to complete, but it’s fairly gradual in its gain. Small children may find it too long or difficult, but older, active families often enjoy this hike. We recommend completing this hike in the late spring and early summer when the wildflowers are in bloom for the best experience.
This trail does get quite busy so we recommend visiting on a weekday or early in the morning to avoid some of the crowds.
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Spirit Falls Trail Route Guide
Spirit Falls is a stunning sight. The falls are tucked into the forest off the beaten path, hidden in the moss of the trees until you’re right in front of them. The falls are gorgeous in the warmer months, but they’re especially impressive when they’re surrounded by crystalline white in the winter.
The hike to the falls is about a mile long, but there are different routes there that may differ in length and elevation gain. While the hike is very short, it’s very steep and descends a slick talus slope. This makes the hike unsuitable for kids and demands careful footing from adults. There are also sheer drop offs near the falls, so we recommend keeping a safe distance from the edge.
The paths to the falls cross private property and are subject to closure at the discretion of the landowners.
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Hamilton Mountain and Rodney Falls Hike Route Guide
The hike to Hamilton Mountain is a spectacular trip that captures the best of the Columbia Gorge. Admire snow-capped peaks, changing foliage, the deep blue river, and multiple waterfalls, including Rodney Falls. This is a hard hike, but it’s worth the extra bit of work for beginners. The trip comes in at 8.0mi with 2287ft of elevation gain.
This trail can be done either as an out and back or as a loop. This route guide follows the loop, which is a touch longer but offers more varied scenery. While the trail is generally quite well-maintained, poles might be helpful for the elevation gain. You likely won’t need a GPS track for this route as the junctions are very well signed.
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Coldwater Lake via Lakes Trail Route Guide
The Lakes Trail is a popular pick for backpackers destined for the Mount Margaret Backcountry, but the out and back hike along the upper shore of Coldwater Lake is an ideal day hike for those exploring the region. This hike is 88.0mi long, but it can be shortened if you want an easier, faster adventure. Pack a picnic or grab the paddleboards if you want to continue the fun after your hike.
This trail is subject to overgrowth and occasionally is blocked by blowdown. We recommend long pants and a spirit of adventure.
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Packwood Lake Trail Route Guide
Packwood Lake’s glassy reflection is one we could stare into for an entire afternoon. With an island of trees adorning the mountain-reflecting lake surface, it’s a great place to kick back after a hike. This trail is also a top pick early in the season. Packwood Lake tends to thaw sooner than other lakes at the same elevation.
This hike is moderately difficult at 12.0mi long with 1843ft of elevation gain. There are camping and fishing spots along the lake and the forest you’ll hike through is beautiful. It’s all you need for a perfect day out in the PNW!
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Hamilton Mountain Trail Route Guide
The hike to Hamilton Mountain is a gorgeous trip that captures the best of the Columbia Gorge. Admire snow-capped peaks, changing foliage through the seasons, the river down below, and multiple waterfalls, including Rodney Falls. This is a hard hike, but it’s worth the extra bit of work for beginners. This out and back approach is shorter than the Hamilton Falls and Rodney Falls loop, but it’s a bit harder on the knees.
While the trail is generally very well-maintained, poles might be helpful for the elevation gain, especially on the way down. Expect heavy traffic on this hike.
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Windy Ridge Trail Route Guide
Windy Ridge Trail is true to its name, but it could also be called Windy Scenic Trail. This trail is an easy trip suitable for all skill levels. While you’ll need the windbreaker, the views are worth it. Our section of this route is only 0.6mi long and takes you up to the Harmony Lake Viewpoint. You can go all the way across the ridge to the Smith Creek Trail, which is about a 15.0mi hike in total.
The drive to this hike is spectacular, too. You’ll have some excellent views from the car windows, so enjoy the journey as well as the destination.
This route sees moderate traffic. The footing can be a bit rough, with the trail consisting of rocky gravel. Additionally, note that the road to this trail is not always accessible when it’s snowy out. Plan this hike for the summer months.
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Cape Horn Loop Trail Route Guide
The Cape Horn Loop Trail is a stellar hike, and it’s bound to become busier and busier as locals and visitors alike discover how awesome it is. With 75.0mi of distance and 1588ft of elevation gain, it’s at a difficulty level that appeals to most: still accessible for older active kids and families but enough of a trip for stronger hikers too. The views of the Columbia River Gorge are excellent, and you’ll be able to appreciate the beautiful Cape Horn Falls.
There is a bit of steep climbing required near the falls, so we don’t recommend this trail for anyone who wouldn’t be comfortable completing the equivalent of several long, steep flights of stairs.
Note that there is an annual closure on this trail between February and July each year to protect peregrine falcon nesting sites. You’ll need to do this hike as an out and back when the closure is in effect.
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Lower Falls Creek Trail Route Guide
The Falls Creek Falls are a beautiful set of waterfalls in a bright green corner of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, falling over a dramatic cascade and then trickling down through the moss-laden rocks that line the creek. Despite its beauty, this spot isn’t as busy as other waterfalls in the forest, so this is a fabulous pick for a warm weekend when other falls trails could be crowded.
The hike to the falls on Lower Falls Creek Trail is moderately difficult, requiring 3.2mi of hiking roundtrip. The elevation gain is fairly mild overall, making this a good pick for active families. Bring a packed lunch and settle in at the falls to enjoy the scenery for a while.
This trail is great after heavy rains or when the fall colors are at their best.
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Silver Star Mountain via Grouse Vista Trail Route Guide
The view from the top of Silver Star Mountain is definitely one of the better ones in the area, if not maybe the best. It’s also one of the best places to appreciate the widespread blooms of wildflowers in Southwest Washington, making a late spring or early summer visit ideal. Bring a camera and be prepared for a wonderful summit.
This hike is 6.3mi long and is rated as hard. While there aren’t any technical challenges, you’ll gain a respectable amount of elevation on a rocky trail. Some sections can get a bit wet and washed out, so come prepared for a bit of an adventure.
Note that this approach does not follow Silver Star Mountain Trail. This route is better for those who don’t have high-clearance vehicles as the road to the Silver Star Mountain Trail is one of the worst in the state.
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Chinook Falls via Siouxon Trail Route Guide
Siouxon Trail is a very popular backpacking route through a truly splendid forest. This area is close to the hearts of many local adventurers, and as it recovers from a forest fire, the landscape changes each year. While the Siouxon Trail is often used for longer trips, the 11.2mi hike to Chinook Falls is a splendid way to enjoy a section of the trail. While Chinook Falls are the feature of this hike, you’ll also be able to see Horseshoe falls and Siouxon Falls on the way.
This hike is moderately difficult. We don’t recommend it for young children as the bridges on the trail are subject to damage and washout, and this can make reaching the falls difficult without a bit of adventurous creek crossing. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden waterfalls in the trees as you enjoy this memorable trail.
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Wildcat Falls via Siouxon Trail Route Guide
Siouxon Trail is a popular backpacking trail through an awesome forest. This area is close to the hearts of many local adventurers, and as it recovers from a forest fire, the landscape changes each year. While the Siouxon Trail is often used for longer trips, the shorter section to Wildcat Falls is a nice way to enjoy a shorter part of the trail.
This hike is moderately difficult. Keep your eyes peeled for hidden waterfalls in the trees as you enjoy this memorable trail.
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Lower Falls Campground Loop Route Guide
The Lower Falls Campground Loop is a great way to stretch your legs and explore if you’re staying at the campground. This trail is quick at 0.7mi long with almost no elevation gain. You’ll walk through the campground, down by the Lewis River, and by Lower Lewis River Falls. It’s a good pick for families and dogs.
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Cathedral Falls Hike Route Guide
Cathedral Falls is a fun destination for a weekend family hike. The trail to reach the falls is easy-moderate at 4.1mi long with mild elevation gain. The falls are best viewed in the spring or early summer, and you might not get much more than a trickle late into the summer or early in the fall.
The hike is kid-friendly, though small children may need a hand on a few narrow sections and creek crossings. Expect moderate traffic on this route.
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Falls Creek Loop Route Guide
The Falls Creek Falls are a gorgeous set of waterfalls in a lush green corner of the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, falling over a dramatic three-level cascade. Despite its beauty, this spot isn’t as busy as other waterfalls in the forest, so this is a fabulous pick for a warm weekend when other falls trails could be crowded.
The hike to the falls on this loop is 5.2mi long. It’s longer than the direct Lower Falls Creek Trail, which you can take if you want a shorter out and back approach to the falls.
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Lava Canyon Trail Route Guide
The Lava Canyon is just across from the Ape Canyon Trailhead, offering similar unique scenery to its more popular neighbor. This canyon is thrilling, with a tall suspension bridge, waterfalls, ladders, and exposed cliffsides. While the beginning of this trail is a bit more kid-friendly, it gets more daunting as you go, so feel free to turn back if it becomes too much for your group.
This hike is 5.4mi miles long and rated as moderate, but be prepared for steep sections, narrow sections, and a ladder climb of about 30ft.
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Walupt Creek Falls Hike Route Guide
Really looking for an adventure? The Walupt Creek Falls is just that. There is no visible trailhead for this hike, no signage, no cell service, and no discernable designated parking. This trail is unofficial and unmaintained, making it subject to extreme overgrowth. We said it was an adventure, right?
The trail is only 2.0mi long, but please prepare accordingly.
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Thomas Lake Trail Route Guide
Thomas Lake is a fantastic spot for a weekend getaway, offering nice backcountry camping spots all around the lakeshore and an easy trail in. This hike is 3.8mi long and rated as easy, making it a good choice for all skill levels. This guide covers the entire distance of the trail, but if you just want to get to Thomas Lake and back, it’s less than half as long.
Note that the mosquitoes on this hike can be truly incessant in the early-mid summertime. Try visiting in August when they tend to be less bothersome and bring a very potent spray. A hike in the fall eliminates this issue and offers great foliage color.
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Sunrise Peak Trail Route Guide
Sunrise Peak Trail is a spectacular hike with panoramic views that start before you’ve even reached the top. We do recommend trying to do this hike for sunrise if you’re willing to wake up early, as the view is spectacular when awash in color. This 3.5mi hike is rated as moderate.
This trail is shared by dirtbikers, most of whom are courteous and careful. You’ll want to be cautious on the narrow route, which can be quite dusty.
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Coyote Wall Loop Trail Route Guide
The Coyote Wall Loop Trail is a fun, customizable hike in the Columbia River Gorge. The trail followed by this route guide is 6.8mi long and rated as moderately difficult, but you can use the labyrinth of interconnecting trails on the wall to make your loop shorter, longer, easier, or more challenging. You can swing by Little Maui Falls and enjoy great views of the river just below you. While parts of this loop are family-friendly, know that if you plan to hike the western side of the wall you’ll deal with steeper, rockier terrain.
Some sections of this trail are a bit steep, so we recommend bringing poles. Additionally, if you’re unfamiliar with the Coyote Wall trails, we definitely recommend downloading your GPS track ahead of time. It can be somewhat easy to get off the trail.
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Indian Heaven Trail #33 Route Guide
Indian Heaven is a gorgeous region for a hike, with carpets of wildflowers, plenty of lakes, and mountains. The Indian Heaven Trail #33 takes you from Cultus Creek Campground to four lakes near the base of Bird Mountain. It’s a nice hike if you’re staying at the campground, but we also recommend it for a day trip. There are lots of trails that can be used to extend your adventure if you want.
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Indian Heaven Lakes Loop Route Guide
Indian Heaven is a beautiful region for a hike, with expansive fields of wildflowers, too many lakes to count, and mountains all around. The Indian Heaven Lakes Loop takes you up to East Crater and around to Blue Lake, Bear Lake, Deer Lake, Clear Lake, Lemel Lake, and more.
Part of this loop is on a decommissioned trail that may be overgrown and difficult to navigate. Download your GPS ahead of time or avoid this section if you’d rather stay on the beaten path.
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Moulton Falls and Mount Bell Loop Route Guide
The hike to Moulton Falls on Lewis River Trail is an easy hike suitable for all skill levels and ages. This guide makes it a loop with a return via Mount Bell. is a good choice year-round, and it’s shared by walkers, runners, and bikers. The footing is varied, with some gravel road, old logging road, and classic trail.
If you want the out and back trail, check out our Moulton Falls route guide.
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Walupt Lake Trail Route Guide
Walupt Lake Trail is a 78.0mi out and back trail in Gifford Pinchot National Forest that is rated as moderate. This hike takes you along Walupt Lake from the Walupt Lake Campground, so it can be used for day trips or as part of a backpacking trip. The lake is calm and perfect on a hot summer day. The mosquitoes can be very bad on this trail, so bring a potent spray.
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Blue Lake Hike Indian Heaven Wilderness Route Guide
Indian Heaven Wilderness is an excellent hiking destination, with countless wildflowers, mountain views, and more picturesque lakes than you could count. The Blue Lake Trail leads you to the shores of Blue Lake, which you can either visit on a day trip or use for backcountry camping. This hike is 124.0mi long and rated as moderate.
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Hummocks Trail Route Guide
Hummocks Trail is a 24.0mi easy trail in the Mount Saint Helens National Monument that provides a great view of Mount Saint Helens and a walk through the area affected by its 1980 eruption. This hike is scenic and interesting, and it’s suitable for the whole family. Note that it’s very important to stay on the trail here. Walking in the protected areas can result in fines.
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June Lake Trail Route Guide
June Lake Trail is a 25.0mi easy hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest that is suitable for all skill levels. This trail leads you to pretty June Lake, with a waterfall cascading behind it. It’s a scenic spot that doesn’t require much effort to reach. This trail also has a nice view of Mount Saint Helens.
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Archer Mountain Trail Route Guide
Archer Mountain Trail is a hard 41.0mi hike that sees light-moderate traffic. This hike is adventurous and will leave you with a good sweat on. The trail itself is rocky, a bit rough, and sometimes overgrown. It’s not the most pleasant trek, but the view at the top is amazing and worth it. While dogs are allowed on this trail, users report that it’s not a great trail for them. Consider leaving your pups at home for this one.
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Snowgrass Flats and Goat Lake Loop Route Guide
The Snowgrass Flats and Goat Lake Loop is a 121.0mi hard hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest that can be used either for day trips or for backpacking trips. The scenery on this trail is truly excellent, with major mountains visible above wide meadows and through the conifers. This hike is rated as hard. We recommend downloading a GPS track before your hike as it can be easy to end up off-trail at some junctions along the way.
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Covel Creek Falls and Angel Falls Trail Route Guide
Covel Creek Falls and Angel Falls Trail is a moderate 36.0mi hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest that sees moderate traffic. This route makes two waterfalls the star of the show. While it’s moderate overall, there are a few steep sections to contend with. We recommend doing this hike in the late spring or after it’s been raining for the best experience at the falls.
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Layser Cave Trail Route Guide
Layser Cave Trail is a quick jaunt to a cave in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. Interpretive signs explain the cave’s use and significance to Indian peoples years prior. The hike is very short at just 0.4mi long and is suitable for all skill levels. The view of Mount Adams on a clear day is an extra perk on this trail.
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Goat Creek Trail Route Guide
Goat Creek Trail is an interesting, varied hike in Gifford Pinchot National Forest. This 9.9mi trail is rated as hard and sees moderate traffic. The trail takes you across multiple stream crossings, underneath a waterfall, through the rainforest, and to the top of Vanson Peak if you’re willing to push a little further. We recommend waiting until the summertime to hike this trail as it tends to hold onto the snow.
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Cispus Pass Loop Route Guide
The Cispus Pass Loop is a 12.4mi trail beginning near Walupt Lake that can be used for day hikes or for backcountry trips by camping at Sheep Lake. This trail has great views of Mount Adams, lots of shade, and well-defined routes. Expect light traffic.
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