Hiking
Spectacular Trails Await in Southwest Washington
Hiking is spectacular in Southwest Washington, with numerous opportunities to enjoy solitude, silence, and magnificent vistas.
Storm damage in recent years has resulted in a number of road closures. Before planning your hike, contact the Gifford Pinchot National Forest Headquarters at 360.891.5000 for the latest information.
In October 2004, the Washington Trails Association selected eight hikes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest that provide spectacular views of Mount St. Helens. Trail reviews are provided.
Badger Peak Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 10-mile roundtrip; elevation gain 1,600 feet with a high point of 5,664 feet. The best spot in the Dark Divide roadless area for dramatic views of Mount St. Helens and the blast zone.
High Rock Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 3-mile roundtrip; elevation gain 1,400 feet with a high point of 5,658 feet. A steady climb to a lookout with views of Rainier, Adams, and St. Helens.
Strawberry Mountain Lookout Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest .75-mile roundtrip; 500 feet elevation gain with a high point of 5,464 feet. Drive most of the way to view the volcano from this awesome lookout sight.
Tongue Mountain Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 3.5 mile-roundtrip; elevation gain 1,300 feet with a high point of 4,750 feet. Hike through groves of pine trees to a lookout where Adams, Rainier, and St. Helens are all magnificent on the horizon.
Juniper Ridge Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 8 miles round trip; elevation gain 2,000 feet; high point 5,611 feet. A classic hike with dramatic views of volcanoes and the Cispus River below.
Sunrise Peak Trail to Jumbo's Shoulder: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 7-mile roundtrip; elevation gain 2,000 feet with a high point of 5,500 feet. This steep trail takes you through fall-foliage meadows to a view of the volcano.
Silver Star Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 11-mile roundtrip; 2,000 feet elevation gain with a high point of 4,390 feet. On a clear day, the panorama includes St. Helens, Rainier, Adams, and Hood.
Hamilton Butte Trail: Gifford Pinchot National Forest 1.5 mile-roundtrip; 900 feet elevation gain with a high point of 5,772 feet. This area was buried in pumice when Mount St. Helens erupted in 1980. A great short hike.
Washington-Hiking-Advisor.com recommends the following trails in the Mount St.Helens area. |
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