The best walks and hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Yes, dogs are generally permitted on many trails within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, but they must be kept on a leash. However, be aware that some sensitive areas, especially within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, have stricter regulations and may not allow dogs on trails. It's always best to check the specific rules for your chosen route before you go.

The forest is famous for its waterfalls. The area around the Lewis River is a great place to start, with the highly-regarded Lower Lewis River Falls offering a view of a striking 200-foot-wide cascade. Another popular and beautiful option is Panther Creek Falls, which is known for its dramatic flow over mossy rocks and is accessible via a short trail and viewing platform.

Absolutely. For a unique and relatively flat walk, consider the Hummocks Trail loop. It's a short 2.4-mile (3.9 km) path that winds through an interesting landscape of mounds created by the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens, making it both educational and manageable for most ages.

For most day hikes, you will need a Northwest Forest Pass or an equivalent federal recreation pass for parking at trailheads. For some specific high-use areas or activities, like climbing Mount St. Helens or backpacking in certain wilderness zones, a separate permit is required and must be obtained in advance. Always verify the specific pass and permit requirements for your destination on the official Forest Service website.

Late spring and summer, typically from May through August, are the best times for wildflower viewing. The specific timing depends on the elevation. Lower elevation trails, like those in the Columbia River Gorge area, can have vibrant displays in the spring. Higher elevation meadows often peak in July and August, offering a spectacular burst of color.

The forest contains several magnificent stands of old-growth trees. The Lewis River Trail is well-known for its sections that pass through ancient forests of towering Douglas firs and western red cedars. Another excellent option is the Iron Creek Old Growth Trail, which is an interpretive trail designed to teach visitors about the ecology of these venerable ecosystems.

Yes, the forest offers several demanding summit hikes. The most iconic is the climb to the summit of Mount Saint Helens, a strenuous trek that requires a permit and rewards hikers with an unparalleled view into the volcano's crater. For an even greater challenge, experienced mountaineers can tackle Mount Adams, the second-highest peak in Washington.

For a beautiful lakeside hike, the Packwood Lake Hike is a great choice. It's a moderately long trail with relatively gentle elevation gain that leads to the shores of the pristine Packwood Lake, offering a peaceful destination for a day hike or an overnight trip.

There are over 100 designated hiking routes available on komoot, covering a vast range of landscapes. The trail system spans from easy nature walks to difficult multi-day backpacking trips, ensuring there are options for every fitness and experience level.

The trails in Gifford Pinchot National Forest are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars. Hikers frequently praise the incredible variety, from the volcanic landscapes of Mount St. Helens to the lush, waterfall-filled river valleys.

For expansive, 360-degree views, the High Rock Lookout trail is an excellent option. This moderate hike involves a steady climb to a historic fire lookout perched on a dramatic rock outcrop, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Rainier.

Yes, exploring the volcanic geology is a highlight of the region. The Ape Cave Interpretive Site allows you to hike through the longest continuous lava tube in the continental U.S. For a different perspective, the Lava Canyon Trail follows the path of a volcanic mudflow (lahar) along a dramatic gorge, showcasing the powerful forces that shaped this landscape.