The best walks and hikes in Clark County

The Moulton Falls via East Fork of the Lewis River Trail is a fantastic choice for a moderate 5.4-mile (8.7 km) hike that delivers big on scenery without demanding a huge effort. You'll wander through a lush forest canopy of alders and Douglas firs, with the East Fork Lewis River always nearby, offering glimpses of its clear, rushing waters. The trail's namesake, Moulton Falls, is a beautiful, wide cascade over mossy rocks, and the iconic two-story Moulton Falls Bridge provides stunning vantage points over the gorge, making it a truly picturesque journey.

This trail is accessible year-round, though winter offers a quieter experience with higher water flow over the falls. The 321 feet (98 metres) of elevation gain is spread out over the 2 hours and 18 minutes estimated duration, making it a gentle outing suitable for families and beginners. Parking is available at the trailhead, but it's a popular destination, so consider an early start, especially on weekends, to ensure you find a spot.

Beyond Moulton Falls, the East Fork Lewis River Trail connects to other points, and you can even extend your adventure towards Yacolt Falls, another impressive waterfall in the park known for its swimming hole. The trail's gentle, mostly flat terrain, often following an old logging railroad grade, makes it an excellent option for those seeking a relaxing yet rewarding outdoor experience in the Pacific Northwest.

The Salmon Creek Greenway Trail offers a delightful escape into nature, winding along the banks of Salmon Creek through a diverse landscape of forests, wetlands, and open meadows. You'll find yourself immersed in a peaceful environment, often spotting local wildlife like deer and various bird species, especially around the serene Turtle Ponds. The predominantly paved path makes for a smooth and accessible journey, perfect for a relaxed outing.

This moderate hiking route spans 7.9 miles (12.7 km) with a gentle 288 feet (88 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking about 3 hours and 18 minutes to complete. The trail is well-equipped with amenities like benches and restrooms at various access points, making it a convenient choice for families or those seeking an easy hike. It's a great option for a peaceful walk any time of year, though some unpaved sections can be muddy in wetter months.

What truly sets the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail apart is its ability to provide a tranquil natural retreat within an urban setting. Its diverse habitats support abundant wildlife, making it a prime spot for birdwatching and nature observation. The trail's connection to Klineline Pond at its eastern end also offers additional recreational opportunities, including a sandy beach and splash pad during the summer months, enhancing its appeal as a family-friendly destination.

The Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail offers a delightful and easy escape into nature, perfect for a relaxed outing. You'll wander through diverse landscapes, from open fields and riparian woodlands to the edges of shallow ponds and marshes, with Redtail Lake as a scenic highlight. The trail is unique for its integrated sculptures and quotes, subtly placed to enhance your connection with the natural world, making it a truly special experience for wildlife spotting and gentle exploration.

Planning your visit is straightforward, with convenient parking and restrooms available at the trailhead. Keep in mind that a section of the Gibbons Creek loop has seasonal closures from October 1st to April 30th to protect wintering waterfowl. While the Refuge River Trail is multi-use, accommodating bikes and leashed dogs, the Mountain View Trail and parts of the Wildlife Art Trail are reserved for pedestrians, ensuring a peaceful walking experience.

This 4.1-mile (6.5 km) hiking route, rated easy with only 66 feet (20 metres) of elevation gain, takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes to complete, making it ideal for families and those seeking an accessible adventure. Located within the Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge, the trail is part of a significant restoration project that reconnected the floodplain to the Columbia River, creating a vital habitat for over 200 species of birds and other wildlife. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for beginner hiking trails with high natural and artistic payoff.

The Moulton Falls and Bells Mountain Loop offers a delightful mix of riverside tranquility and forest ascent, making it a popular choice for hikers seeking diverse scenery. You'll begin by following the East Fork Lewis River, passing the impressive Moulton Falls and crossing the iconic arch bridge, before the path gradually climbs through lush fir and alder forests towards Bells Mountain. This moderate 6.1-mile (9.9 km) loop, with 799 feet (243 metres) of elevation gain, provides a dynamic experience that typically takes around 2 hours and 49 minutes to complete.

Parking is available at Moulton Falls Regional Park, but it's a good idea to arrive early, especially on busy days. While the initial sections are well-defined, be prepared for less signage on the Bells Mountain portion; a downloaded map or navigation app will be your best friend here. The trail is generally accessible year-round, though spring brings higher water flows to the falls, and summer offers a cool, shaded escape.

What sets this trail apart is its blend of easily accessible natural beauty and a more adventurous mountain climb, offering glimpses of Mount St. Helens and Mount Adams from higher points. Beyond Moulton Falls, you might also discover Yacolt Falls and the confluence of the East Fork Lewis River and Big Tree Creek, adding to the rich water features along the route. It's a fantastic option if you're looking for a varied hike that transitions from gentle river paths to more challenging forest terrain.

The Round Lake Loop Trail offers a delightful and accessible escape into nature, winding around the serene waters of Round Lake. You'll traverse a variety of surfaces, from paved sections to gravel paths and boardwalks, all while enjoying lush evergreen forests and views of the historic Round Lakes Upper Dam and the unique Camas Potholes. This easy 2.9-mile (4.6 km) hike, with only 276 feet (84 metres) of elevation gain, is perfect for a relaxed outing, taking about 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete.

This trail is a fantastic option for families, dog walkers, and runners, offering amenities like picnic areas and playgrounds nearby. It's enjoyable throughout the year, though spring and fall bring particularly beautiful colors to the landscape. Remember to keep your dog on a leash, as it's a popular spot for wildlife viewing.

Part of the broader Lake to Lake Trail system, this loop showcases diverse scenery, from tranquil lake views to sections alongside rapid rivers. The historic Round Lake Upper Dam, originally built in 1883, adds a touch of local history to your walk. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, and consider bringing a fishing rod, as the area is popular for angling.

The Tarbell and Silver Shadow Loop offers a dynamic hiking experience through the Yacolt Burn State Forest, blending regenerating Douglas-fir forests with open clear-cut areas. You'll traverse diverse terrain, including gentle slopes and a notable steep climb with tight switchbacks on the Silver Shadow Trail, all while enjoying expansive views of the forest and potentially distant volcanoes like Mount St. Helens from the Tarbell Trail.

Planning your visit requires a Discover Pass for parking at the trailhead, so be sure to have one ready. The trail is well-marked, but be aware that some sections can become overgrown in summer, especially in the clear-cut zones. While winter hiking is possible, always check local conditions, and consider a spring visit for vibrant wildflowers.

This 6.5-mile (10.5 km) moderate hike, with 1166 feet (356 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes to complete. It's a great way to experience a working forest environment, showcasing various stages of timber recovery alongside natural beauty, and offers a rewarding challenge without being an all-day commitment.

The Kloochman Butte and Hidden Falls via Appaloosa and Tarbell Trail Loop is a challenging 11.2-mile (17.9 km) hiking route that takes you through a mix of lush forests and open clear-cut areas near Yacolt, Washington. You'll encounter varied terrain, from switchbacks to sections with roots and rocks, all leading to the impressive 90-foot Hidden Falls. With 1698 feet (518 metres) of elevation gain, this difficult trail offers a rewarding experience for those seeking a substantial day hike.

Plan for approximately 5 hours and 17 minutes on the trail, and make sure you have a Washington Discover Pass for trailhead parking. The route is popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians, so be prepared to share the path. Spring, after the rains, is an excellent time to visit when Hidden Falls is at its most spectacular, but be aware that clear-cut sections can be exposed and hot on sunny days.

This loop is part of the larger Tarbell Trail network, offering a taste of the region's extensive trail system. You'll enjoy views overlooking the Yacolt Burn State Forest and even catch glimpses of Silverstar Mountain from certain viewpoints. The trail's diverse landscape and the impressive waterfall make it a notable destination for a full day of exploration.

The Salmon-Morgan Creeks Trail offers a delightful, easy escape into a lush natural area, perfect for a quick dose of nature. You'll wander along soft dirt and wood chip paths, shaded by towering second-growth fir and Western Red Cedar trees, with the chance to spot wildflowers in spring. The highlight is undoubtedly the serene confluence of Morgan Creek and Salmon Creek, where you might catch a glimpse of local wildlife like salmon or Pacific tree frogs.

This 1.6-mile (2.6 km) hiking route is rated easy, with a minimal 54 feet (16 metres) of elevation gain, taking roughly 41 minutes to complete. It's an excellent choice for families or anyone looking for a gentle, accessible walk. The trailhead is conveniently located behind a residential area, and picnic tables are available for a relaxing break before or after your stroll.

Beyond the main path, a network of unofficial side trails crisscrosses the 81-acre natural area, inviting further exploration for those who want to extend their outing. The area is a haven for wildlife viewing, with diverse trees, shrubs, and wetlands supporting a variety of creatures. It's a fantastic spot to experience the tranquility of Clark County's natural beauty without committing to a strenuous trek.

The Battle Ground Lake Perimeter Loop offers a delightful, easy hike through lush forest around a distinctive volcanic crater lake. You'll wander beneath towering Douglas firs and moss-covered Alaskan cedars, enjoying views of the aqua-green water. This 2.6-mile (4.2 km) route has a gentle 199 feet (61 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 1 hour and 9 minutes, making it a perfect, accessible outing for families and dog walkers.

Parking is available at Battle Ground Lake State Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on summer weekends, so an early start is advisable. The trail can get muddy and slippery after rain, so wear appropriate hiking boots with good traction. This is a year-round destination, with early mornings often providing the best opportunities for spotting local wildlife.

What truly sets this trail apart is its unique geological setting around a water-filled volcanic crater, a rare feature in the Pacific Northwest. The park is also known for its diverse wildlife, including various bird species and small mammals, and offers a peaceful escape from city life. It's an ideal spot for introducing new hikers to the outdoors or enjoying a tranquil circular walk.