Lava Canyon Trail
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 8.7 km miles long and rated as moderate, but be prepared for steep sections, narrow sections, and a ladder climb of about 9 m.
Quick Navigation
Join our newsletter
Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers
Route Description for Lava Canyon Trail
Lava Canyon Trail is a fun hike with varied terrain and impressive scenery. There’s some narrow cliffside hiking, a ladder to climb, and a few stellar viewpoints. While this hike isn’t too long, it’s not the best fit for small kids or those who are scared of heights.
Stay on the trail to avoid getting stranded on narrow, rocky sections. The footing can be very loose in places, so poles are definitely recommended.
Begin from the trailhead. You’ll pass the interpretive site (stop in to learn more about the region’s volcanic history) and switchback along the river. Check out the falls, taking the trail on either side of the water to where they meet. There are lots of waterfalls along the trail, and the ladder climb comes near the end. Turn back from the end and follow the same route back.
Getting to the Lava Canyon Trail Trailhead
The trailhead for the Lava Canyon Trail is at the end of Lava Canyon Road.
Route Information
Lava Canyon Trail Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherLava Canyon Trail Reviews
Add a comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.
Nearby Trails
- Ptarmigan Trail
- Harmony Trail
- Curly Creek Falls via Lewis River Trail
- Lava Canyon Suspension Bridge Hike
- Windy Ridge and Plains of Abraham Loop
- Mount Saint Helens Summit via Worm Flows Trail
- June Lake Trail
- Trail of Two Forests
- Windy Ridge Trail
- Mount Saint Helens Summit via Monitor Ridge Trail
- Ape Canyon Trail
- Ape Caves Trail