The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Moulton Falls Regional Park

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 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 Bells Mountain Trail takes you on a varied journey through Washington's Yacolt Burn State Forest, where you'll experience a mix of dense alder and Douglas fir groves and open clear-cut areas. The path is a singletrack that undulates, featuring roots and rock gardens, and frequently parallels Cedar Creek, crossing it many times. From higher points, you can catch impressive views of Mount St. Helens and Silver Star Mountain, making for a scenic and engaging hike.

This moderate 9.5-mile (15.2 km) route involves 1805 feet (550 metres) of elevation gain and typically takes about 4 hours and 36 minutes. You can access the trail from Moulton Falls County Park or Cold Creek Campground. It's important to note that active logging in the region can lead to periodic reroutes or closures, so always check the trail's current status with the Washington Department of Natural Resources before you go.

Part of the larger 30-mile Chinook Trail system, the Bells Mountain Trail is a multi-use path popular with hikers, mountain bikers, and equestrians. Its designation as a primitive, four-foot-wide shared-use trail highlights its connection to the Silver Star Mountain area, offering a link to the Tarbell Trail for those looking to extend their adventure towards the peak of Silver Star Mountain.

The East Fork of the Lewis River Trail offers a delightful riverside experience, winding through lush forests of Douglas firs and Western red cedars. You'll follow the soothing sounds of the East Fork Lewis River, passing by the scenic Moulton Falls and its bridge, a highlight perfect for a photo stop. The path is generally a wide, comfortable gravel trail, but expect some varied terrain with gentle inclines and occasional rocky sections, making it a pleasant journey for hikers of various skill levels.

This moderate 5.4-mile (8.6 km) hike, with 383 feet (117 metres) of elevation gain, typically takes about 2 hours and 20 minutes. The trailhead is often found near Moulton Falls Regional Park, and while parking can get busy, arriving early helps secure a spot. It's a great option for a day trip, offering constant proximity to the river and plenty of shade.

Beyond its natural beauty, the East Fork Lewis River holds historical significance, named after Meriwether Lewis. The area is also vital for wildlife, recognized as a wild steelhead gene bank, and you might spot creatures like deer, raccoons, or various bird species along the way. It's a fantastic choice for a family-friendly outing in Clark County, Washington.