The best walks and hikes in Cowlitz County

Yes, the area offers several great options for families. For a short, educational walk with views of Mount St. Helens, the Hummocks Trail loop is an excellent choice. Another easy and accessible option is the Seaquest State Park loop, which takes you through a lovely forested area.

Dog-friendliness varies by location. Dogs are generally permitted on-leash in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest, but they are prohibited on most trails within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument to protect wildlife and the fragile landscape. Always check the specific regulations for the trail you plan to hike before you go.

Cowlitz County has several enjoyable loop trails. For a moderately challenging hike through the volcanic landscape, consider the Blue Lake loop. If you're in Longview, the flat Lake Sacajawea Park loop is a popular and easy urban walk.

Yes, the region is known for its beautiful waterfalls, especially within the Gifford Pinchot National Forest. The Lewis River is a highlight for waterfall hikes. For a moderate route that takes you to a scenic cascade, the hike to Sheep Canyon Falls is a fantastic option.

Summer and early fall (July through October) are ideal for hiking, especially at higher elevations around Mount St. Helens, when the trails are typically snow-free and the weather is mild. Lower elevation trails along rivers and in state parks can often be enjoyed year-round, with spring offering vibrant wildflowers and fall showcasing beautiful foliage.

For most day-hiking trails in the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, you will need to display a National Forest Recreation Pass (like the Northwest Forest Pass or America the Beautiful Pass) in your vehicle. Permits are required for specific activities, such as climbing to the summit of Mount St. Helens, but not for general trail use on routes like the Coldwater Lake or Hummocks trails.

For those seeking a challenge, the area around Mount St. Helens provides strenuous options. The Coldwater Lake Loop is a long, demanding trek with significant elevation gain through the blast zone. Another difficult but rewarding route is the hike to the natural arch viewpoint, which offers incredible views as a payoff for its steep climbs.

Absolutely. For a very gentle walk, the Marine Park Beach trail in Kalama offers a flat path along the river. Similarly, the Riverfront Trail in Castlerock is an easy out-and-back route perfect for a relaxed stroll.

The terrain is quite varied. Hikes within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument often cross rocky, exposed landscapes with fascinating geological features left by the eruption. In contrast, trails in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest and at lower elevations typically wind through dense, lush forests with softer, dirt paths, often following rivers and streams.

The region is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars. Hikers frequently praise the dramatic and unique scenery of the Mount St. Helens area, noting the incredible experience of witnessing nature's regeneration. The well-maintained trails and beautiful river and waterfall hikes in the surrounding forests are also consistent highlights.

Yes, Longview is right next to Lake Sacajawea Park, which features a very popular and easy walking loop around the lake. It's perfect for a quick dose of nature without leaving the city. For more traditional hiking, you can easily drive to nearby trail systems in the surrounding hills and forests.

Several spots are highly regarded by local and visiting hikers. Key areas include:

• Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument: Home to a variety of trails like the popular Lava Canyon Trailhead, offering dramatic views of the volcanic landscape.
• Gifford Pinchot National Forest: Contains beloved routes such as the Lewis River Trail, famous for its stunning waterfalls and lush forest scenery.
• Willapa Hills State Park Trail: A well-liked trail that provides a different kind of scenery, following a former railroad line.