Tucked away in southern Washington, Gifford Pinchot National Forest feels like one of the Pacific Northwest’s best-kept secrets. It’s the kind of place where you can walk for miles under towering evergreens, hear nothing but the rush of rivers and the crunch of your boots, and stumble upon jaw-dropping views without a crowd in sight. From snow-capped volcanic peaks to mossy canyons and wildflower meadows, this forest has a little bit of everything. Let’s take a look at what makes this place so special, along with my picks for the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest!

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History of Gifford Pinchot National Forest

Long before there were trails and maps, the land that’s now Gifford Pinchot National Forest was shaped by fire and ice. This region sits in the Cascade Range, which means it’s home to some serious volcanic action. Most famously, Mount St. Helens, which erupted in 1980 and dramatically reshaped the landscape. But that was just the latest in a long line of eruptions over thousands of years. The terrain is a mix of ancient lava flows, glaciers, rugged ridgelines, and deep river valleys. You’ll see it as you hike—everything from pumice-covered slopes to alpine meadows born from volcanic ash. It’s wild to think how much the land has changed, and how much life continues to thrive here.

Native American History

Before it became a national forest, this area was, and still is, home to Indigenous peoples. Tribes native to this area include the Cowlitz, Yakama, and Klickitat. These communities have lived with the land for thousands of years, relying on it for food, medicine, and spiritual practices. The forest was never just wilderness—it was a well-stewarded, living landscape. Tribes would fish for salmon in the rivers, hunt elk and deer in the valleys, and gather huckleberries in meadows. Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens are not just scenic backdrops—they’re sacred. Today, many tribal members still return to these lands to carry on those traditions, reminding us that the forest’s story includes deep cultural roots.

Recent History and Current Conditions

The area officially became part of the national forest system in 1908, originally as part of the Mount Rainier Forest Reserve. In 1949, it was renamed to honor Gifford Pinchot, the first chief of the U.S. Forest Service. He was also a major force in the early conservation movement. Today, the forest spans over 1.3 million acres, with everything from remote wilderness to actively managed timber zones. It’s one of the most diverse forests in the Northwest—offering everything from family-friendly hikes to remote alpine treks. Thanks to ongoing conservation work, wildlife like black bears, mountain goats, and even gray wolves continue to roam the forest. While recreation is a big draw, the forest is still used for things like grazing, scientific research, and tribal access. It’s a place where multiple ways of life intersect—with the forest always at the center.

Best Time to Visit

Honestly, there’s no bad time to explore Gifford Pinchot—it all depends on what kind of experience you’re after. Summer tends to be the most accessible and popular season, especially for hiking and camping. However, each season brings its own vibe. Here’s what you can expect throughout the year:

Spring

Spring is when the forest starts to wake up again. Lower-elevation trails become hikeable, wildflowers start popping up in meadows, and waterfalls are roaring from all the snowmelt. It can still be muddy, and snow often lingers on the higher trails into May or even June. It’s generally best to stick to areas near rivers, lakes, or foothills early in the season. Bring layers—spring weather in the Cascades can swing from sunshine to drizzle in a heartbeat.

Great for: Waterfall hikes, wildflower spotting, fewer crowds
Things to keep in mind: High-elevation trails may still be buried in snow

Summer

This is peak hiking season. Snow finally melts out of the alpine, roads to more remote trailheads open up, and the days are long and sunny (well, usually!). You’ll get clear views of stunning Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens. Also, high-country hikes like Goat Rocks or Indian Heaven Wilderness really shine. It’s also the best time for backpacking trips. Just be prepared for dust, mosquitoes, and occasional wildfire smoke in late summer.

Great for: High-elevation hikes, backpacking, camping, mountain views
Things to keep in mind: Bugs, heat, and wildfire risk increase in August

Fall

Fall is hands-down one of the most underrated times to visit. The air turns crisp, huckleberries ripen (yes, you can pick them!), and the forest explodes in reds, oranges, and golds. It’s quieter too—summer crowds fade, and the mood gets cozy. Trails are still open through much of October, though by November, snow often starts returning to the higher elevations.

Great for: Fall colors, berry picking, peaceful trails
Things to keep in mind: Weather gets more unpredictable; bring rain gear

Winter

If you’re into snow, winter can be magical here. While many roads and trails close due to snow, the forest becomes a playground for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and even snowmobiling in designated areas. Mount Adams looks especially majestic in winter, and there are several sno-parks with groomed trails. Lower elevations might stay hikeable, but always check road conditions and trail reports before heading out.

Great for: Snowshoeing, peaceful forests, dramatic views
Things to keep in mind: Limited trail access, icy roads, and short daylight hours

No matter what time of year you visit Gifford Pinchot National Forest, you’re in for something special. Whether it’s wildflower-filled meadows in the spring, big mountain adventures in the summer, quiet golden trails in the fall, or snow-covered solitude in the winter, this place always finds a way to show off. Just pick your season, pack for the conditions, and let the forest do the rest.

Where to Stay

If you’re planning a trip to explore the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, you’ve got a few great options for where to base yourself. Whether you’re all about back-to-nature camping or prefer the comfort of a cozy cabin, there’s something for every style.

Camping

Camping is a classic choice. There are dozens of campgrounds scattered throughout the forest, from riverside spots like Iron Creek to alpine hideaways near Takhlakh Lake. These put you super close to some of the most scenic trails in the country. And let’s be honest—there’s nothing like waking up with a mountain view and heading straight onto the trail.

Cabins and Lodges

If camping’s not your thing, cabins and lodges around towns like Packwood, Trout Lake, Randle, and Carson offer a great home base. These spots are charming, relaxed, and usually within a short drive to major trailheads. Many vacation rentals in the area come with wood stoves and hot tubs. Some even have epic views of Mount Adams—perfect after a long day on the trail.

Action Oriented

For those who want a little more action, staying near White Salmon or Hood River gives you easy access to both the forest and the Columbia River Gorge. Throughout this area there are great breweries, restaurants, and shops to enjoy after your hikes.

Whichever route you go, the key is to book ahead—especially in summer and early fall when the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest are at their most popular. Just decide what kind of adventure you want, and you’ll find the perfect place to rest your boots.

Things to Do

While the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest might be the main reason people visit, there’s so much more to do once you’re here. This forest is massive. There are over a million acres of mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and hidden gems to explore. You definitely have options whether you’re feeling active or just want to soak in the scenery.

Scenic Drive

The forest is home to some gorgeous backroads, like Forest Road 25 and the Wind River Highway. In fall, the colors are incredible, and in summer, it’s an easy way to explore the landscape without having to lace up your boots. Don’t miss the drive up to Mount St. Helens for jaw-dropping views of the blast zone.

Chasing Waterfalls

If you’re into waterfalls, you’re in the right place. Some require a hike (like Lewis River Falls), while others—like Lower Falls or Panther Creek Falls—are just a short walk from the car. Bring a picnic and make a day of it!

Camping Under the Stars

There are plenty of quiet spots to set up camp, from remote wilderness sites to family-friendly campgrounds with fire rings and vault toilets. Many campgrounds are first-come, first-served, so plan ahead if you’re coming during a busy weekend.

Pick Huckleberries

Late summer and early fall are prime time for huckleberry picking in places like Indian Heaven Wilderness. Just bring a container, and maybe plan for a short hike with lots of snack breaks along the way.

Winter Fun

In colder months, the forest transforms into a snowy playground. You can snowshoe, sled, or cross-country ski at several Sno-Parks like Oldman Pass or SnowKing. It’s peaceful, quiet, and absolutely beautiful blanketed in snow.

Fishing and Paddling

The forest is full of rivers and lakes, which means fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding are all solid options. Takhlakh Lake and Walupt Lake are two scenic favorites—especially at sunrise.

So even if you’re coming for the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, be sure to slow down and take in everything else this incredible area has to offer. You’ll leave with more than just sore legs—you’ll leave with stories.

Best Hikes at Gifford Pinchot National Forest

With everything from mossy river walks to high-alpine ridge lines, this place is a dream for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re in it for the views, wildflowers, waterfalls, or just some peace and quiet under towering evergreens, there’s a trail here with your name on it.

Ape Caves Trail

If you’ve ever wanted to hike through a real lava tube, the Ape Caves Trail is a must. Located near Mount St. Helens, this unique hike is one of the longest lava tubes in North America, offering an unforgettable underground adventure.

Trail Overview

• Length: 2.5 miles round trip (if you do both tubes)
  
• Type: Out-and-back
  
• Difficulty: Moderate
  
• Elevation Gain: 400 feet
  

Season: Year-round (though conditions can vary in winter)

Why You Should Hike Ape Caves

The Ape Caves are part of the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, and they’re a literal blast to explore. The trail leads you into two sections of the lava tube, the Lower Cave and the Upper Cave, both offering something totally different.

The Lower Cave

This section is about half a mile long and offers a more accessible experience for hikers of all levels. You’ll follow a well-worn path along the cave floor, and as you walk deeper into the darkness, you’ll see remnants of the volcanic eruption that formed the caves thousands of years ago. The tunnel is about 12 feet high and wide in most places, but you’ll still have to duck or crawl through certain areas (it’s part of the fun!). You can even see “lava benches” where the lava once flowed, cooling and hardening to create this otherworldly environment.

Upper Cave

For the more adventurous, the Upper Cave section is longer (about 1.5 miles) and a little more challenging. You’ll have to scramble over boulders and climb up rocks to navigate through this section. Some parts of the cave are quite tight, and you’ll need a good headlamp to spot the rock formations and stunning natural features. It’s much darker and cooler than the Lower Cave, and the sound of dripping water echoes in the stillness.

What to Bring

• Flashlight or headlamp: This is essential. It’s pitch dark inside the caves, and you’ll want both hands free to navigate.
  
• Warm clothing: The temperature inside the caves is a cool 40–50°F, so even on a warm day outside, it’ll feel chilly underground.
  
• Good shoes: The cave floor can be uneven, so sturdy, non-slip shoes are a must. Some parts of the trail can get a little slippery.
  
• Be prepared to get a little muddy: The trail through the caves can be wet and muddy, so if you don’t mind getting a little dirty, it’s all part of the adventure.

What You’ll See

What You’ll See:
While the main attraction is the cave itself, the surrounding Mount St. Helens landscape is stunning. You’ll pass lush forests and moss-covered rocks before entering the caves. If you’re visiting in the spring, wildflowers are in bloom, and the area is especially beautiful. You can also catch glimpses of the nearby Mount St. Helens, especially from the cave entrance, where the views are jaw-dropping.

Why it’s a Fun Hike

Hiking through lava tubes is such a surreal experience. The quiet, the cool air, the strange rock formations—it feels like stepping into another world. It’s not your typical forest hike, and that’s what makes it so exciting. Whether you’re a geology enthusiast, a photographer, or just looking for something different, the Ape Caves Trail delivers. The unique caving adventure easily makes this one of the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Plus, it’s one of those trails you can feel proud to check off your bucket list!

Lewis River Falls Trail

If you love waterfalls (and let’s be honest—who doesn’t?), the Lewis River Falls Trail is a total gem. This trail winds through lush, old-growth forest alongside the crystal-clear Lewis River, with several jaw-dropping waterfalls along the way. It’s the kind of hike that feels like you stepped into a Pacific Northwest postcard.

Trail Overview

• Length: Around 8.8 miles round trip (you can do a shorter version if you just want to see the main falls)
  
• Type: Out-and-back
  
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate (depending on how far you go)
  
• Elevation Gain: About 600 feet
  

Best Season: Spring through early fall

What You’ll See

 The trail takes you past three major waterfalls, each one totally worth the stop:

Lower Lewis River Falls – This is the showstopper. A wide, thundering cascade that plunges into a massive turquoise pool. There’s a side trail that leads to the base of the falls if you want to get closer (or dip your feet in on a warm day). It’s perfect for photos and picnics.

Middle Lewis River Falls – Smaller than the lower falls, but still really beautiful, especially with the backdrop of mossy rocks and towering evergreens.

Upper Lewis River Falls – The tallest of the bunch, with a dramatic drop and some great viewing spots from above. If you make it this far, you’ll usually find fewer crowds and more solitude.

Why it’s a Favorite

It’s the full Pacific Northwest experience. You get forest, river, mossy trees, birdsong, and waterfalls all in one go. The trail itself is well-maintained and relatively gentle, making it a great option for families, photographers, or anyone looking to spend a few hours immersed in nature without a brutal climb.

Plus, there are plenty of little side trails and river access points if you want to explore or just chill by the water for a while. Bring a lunch, take your time, and soak it in.

Tips for Hiking Lewis River Falls Trail

• Parking: There are multiple access points, but the Lower Falls Recreation Area is the most popular and best for catching all three waterfalls.
  
• Crowds: It can get busy in the summer and on weekends, so try to go early or midweek if you’re looking for a quieter experience.
  
• Bring a swimsuit: On hot summer days, the river pools are super inviting, and people often swim or wade near the Lower Falls.

• Stay safe: The rocks near the water can be slick, so wear good shoes and watch your footing.

Whether you do the full hike or just a section of it, the Lewis River Falls Trail is the kind of trail that stays with you. It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of that mossy, misty magic that makes the Gifford Pinchot National Forest such a special place.

Indian Heaven Wilderness Loop

The Indian Heaven Wilderness Loop is one of those hikes that doesn’t always show up on the top-10 lists—but once you experience it, you’ll understand why it’s a local favorite. If you’re looking for alpine meadows, sparkling lakes, and a quiet trail that feels magical in the fall, this one checks all the boxes.

Trail Overview

• Length: ~7 to 9 miles (depending on the route you take)
  
• Type: Loop
  
• Difficulty: Moderate
  
• Elevation Gain: Around 1,400 feet
  

Best Season: Late summer to early fall

Why it’s Special

The Indian Heaven Wilderness is tucked between Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens, and it’s absolutely gorgeous. Especially in late summer and fall when the huckleberries ripen and the colors pop. This area is known for its volcanic plateaus, over 150 small lakes, and meadow after meadow of wildflowers and fall foliage. It feels untouched and peaceful in a way that’s hard to describe until you’re out there.

The loop combines parts of the Indian Heaven Trail, Lemei Trail, and the Cultus Creek Trail. It weaves you through quiet forests, wide-open meadows, and around sparkling alpine lakes. On a clear day, you can catch views of Mount Adams, Mount St. Helens, and even Mount Hood in the distance—seriously jaw-dropping.

What You’ll See Along the Way

• Alpine lakes like Deep Lake, Cultus Lake, and Lemei Lake (great for a snack break or just soaking in the views)
  
• Wide open meadows with wildflowers in summer and fiery reds and golds in fall
  
• Old-growth forests filled with fir, hemlock, and larch

• If you time it right, the trail is bursting with huckleberries in late August and September—bring a container and snack as you go!

Tips for Hiking the Indian Heaven Wilderness Loop

• Mosquitoes: They’re intense in early summer. Trust me—if you’re going in July, bring strong bug spray or wait until late August when they start to calm down.
  
• Fall is incredible: If you hike this in late September or early October, the fall colors are unreal. It’s one of the best times to go.
  
• Permits: You’ll need a self-issued wilderness permit, which is available at trailheads.

• Navigation: Bring a map or GPS—trails in this area are sometimes faint or intersect with old paths, and signage can be minimal.

Hiking the Indian Heaven Wilderness Loop feels like discovering a secret. It’s not overly crowded, it’s packed with natural beauty, and the mix of meadows, lakes, and panoramic views makes it a dream for anyone who just wants to unplug and wander. Whether you’re going for the solitude, the berries, or the Instagram-worthy views, this hike totally delivers.

Goat Lake via Goat Ridge Trail

The Goat Lake via Goat Ridge Trail is one of those hikes that makes you feel like you earned a front-row seat to some of the most spectacular alpine scenery in the Pacific Northwest. If you’re into wildflowers, mountain goats, and big sweeping views, this trail is going to steal your heart.

Trail Overview

• Length: About 10.5 miles round trip
  
• Type: Out-and-back (or loop option if you return via Snowgrass Flat)
  
• Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
  
• Elevation Gain: Around 2,600 feet
  

Best Season: Late July through September

What Makes it Special

This trail is located in the Goat Rocks Wilderness, a rugged, volcanic mountain range tucked between Mount Rainier and Mount Adams. It’s wild, dramatic, and absolutely stunning. The hike to Goat Lake takes you through dense forest, up through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers in summer. Then you reach the shores of a crystal-clear alpine lake with views that’ll stop you in your tracks.

On a clear day, you can look out across Goat Lake and see Mount Adams looming in the distance. It feels otherworldly—especially if you’re lucky enough to spot a herd of actual mountain goats wandering the rocky ridges nearby.

Trail Highlights

• The ascent through forest is peaceful and shaded—great for staying cool during the climb.
  
• Once you reach the meadows around Jordan Basin, the views start to open up dramatically. In late July and August, this area is carpeted in wildflowers—lupine, paintbrush, and avalanche lilies galore.
  
• Goat Lake itself is a picture-perfect alpine lake, often ringed by snow well into summer. It’s a great spot for lunch or just sitting and soaking it all in.

You can return the way you came or loop back via Snowgrass Flat Trail if you want to add some variety and even more stunning views.

Why You’ll Love It

It’s the kind of trail that offers a little bit of everything: forests, flowers, mountain views, and an icy blue alpine lake at the end. It’s a popular backpacking destination too, but absolutely doable as a (long) day hike if you start early. And honestly, you’ll probably end up taking a hundred photos before you even reach the lake.

Tips for Hiking to Goat Lake

• Go late in the season: Snow can linger well into July, so late summer and early fall are the safest bets for clear trails and wildflowers.
  
• Bring layers: Even in August, it can get chilly at the lake.
  
• Watch for goats: They’re often around, but give them space—especially if they have babies.

• Consider camping: There are great dispersed camping spots near Goat Lake and along the way if you want to turn it into an overnighter. Just follow Leave No Trace principles.

This is one of those hikes that feels epic from start to finish. It’s not the easiest trail, but the reward is more than worth it. If you’re checking off the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, Goat Lake should be high on your list—it’s unforgettable.

Mount Adams South Climb

The Mount Adams South Climb isn’t your average hike—it’s a true adventure and one of the most accessible non-technical summits in the Cascade Range. If you’ve ever dreamed about standing on the summit of a 12,000-foot volcano but weren’t ready to bust out ropes and ice axes, this is the route for you.

Trail Overview

• Length: ~12 miles round trip
  
• Elevation Gain: About 6,600 feet
  
• Difficulty: Strenuous
  
• Best Season: Late June to early September

• Permits: Yes — you’ll need a Climbing Permit and Wilderness Permit, both required above 7,000 feet

What Makes it Special

Mount Adams is the second-highest peak in Washington and towers above everything else in the area. The South Climb route starts from the Cold Springs Campground and leads up through forest, alpine meadows, rocky slopes, and ultimately a permanent snowfield known as Lunch Counter, where many climbers camp for the night. From there, you can push to the summit early in the morning—ideally catching sunrise on the way up.

No technical mountaineering gear is required in mid-summer, but you will need crampons and an ice axe for the upper snowfields. And even though it’s labeled “non-technical,” it’s still a massive climb and shouldn’t be taken lightly. That said, it’s a totally doable summit for hikers with solid fitness and preparation—and the payoff is spectacular. This one easily tops my list for best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest.

Highlights of the Climb

• Lunch Counter (~9,400 ft): The most popular basecamp. It’s exposed, but offers incredible views and a good place to rest or camp before summit day.
  
• Piker’s Peak (~11,600 ft): This false summit tricks a lot of people—but once you reach it, the real summit is just a bit farther.

• The Summit (12,276 ft): From the top, you’ll see Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, Mount Hood, and countless ridges and valleys stretching out for miles. It honestly feels like you’re standing on the roof of the Northwest.

Tips for the Climb

• Acclimate: That elevation gain is real. If you’re not used to high altitudes, consider camping at Lunch Counter to split it into two days.
  
• Start early: Many people begin their summit push before sunrise to take advantage of firmer snow conditions and beat the afternoon slush.
  
• Bring the right gear: At a minimum, bring crampons and an ice axe—and know how to use them. Also: glacier glasses, layers, sun protection, and way more water than you think you’ll need.

• Permits: Required from late spring through September. You can get them online or at the trailhead, depending on the season.

The Mount Adams South Climb is a beast—but it’s the kind of challenge that leaves you feeling accomplished, inspired, and maybe a little sore in the best way. It’s one of the most iconic experiences in Gifford Pinchot National Forest, and if you’re chasing big views and bigger memories, this climb will stick with you forever.

Have Fun, and Be Kind to Nature

Whether you’re wandering through wildflower-filled meadows, descending into ancient lava tubes, or standing atop a snow-capped volcanic summit, the best hikes in Gifford Pinchot National Forest offer something truly special for every kind of adventurer. This wild, rugged landscape is full of surprises—from thundering waterfalls and alpine lakes to sweeping views of Washington’s most iconic peaks.

There’s a kind of magic here that’s hard to put into words. It’s in the scent of the fir trees, the sound of your boots crunching on volcanic rock, and the quiet moments when you realize just how big and beautiful the world can be. Whether you’re in it for a challenging summit or a peaceful forest stroll, Gifford Pinchot delivers.

So pack your gear, grab your hiking buddies, and get ready to explore—this forest is waiting.

As always, please practice Leave No Trace principles when enjoying the outdoors! Check local trail and weather conditions before any hike.

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