The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Clark County
4.9
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1,206
hikers
64
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails in Clark County, Washington, traverse a diverse landscape featuring lush forests, scenic rivers, and expansive wetlands. The region is characterized by its access to the Columbia River Gorge, offering views of basalt columns and river panoramas. Numerous river systems, including the East Fork Lewis River and Salmon Creek, provide picturesque cascades and tranquil waterside paths. While not home to towering peaks, the county offers stunning vistas of the Cascade Mountain Range from various viewpoints.
Best family…
Last updated: April 25, 2026
4.5
(4)
45
hikers
8.67km
02:19
100m
100m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Moulton Falls via East Fork of the Lewis River Trail, a 5.4-mile (8.7 km) route that takes about 2 hours and 18 minutes…
20
hikers
12.7km
03:19
90m
80m
Embark on a moderate hike along the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail, a pleasant escape into nature that spans 7.9 miles (12.7 km). You will experience diverse natural scenery as the…
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5.0
(1)
16
hikers
6.55km
01:40
20m
20m
Embark on an easy hiking adventure along the Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail, a route designed for a relaxed outdoor experience. This 4.1-mile (6.5 km)…
5.0
(1)
12
hikers
9.89km
02:50
240m
220m
Embark on the Moulton Falls and Bells Mountain Loop for a moderate hiking adventure that spans 6.1 miles (9.9 km) and climbs 799 feet (243 metres). This route offers a…
5.0
(1)
11
hikers
4.61km
01:15
80m
40m
Embark on an easy hike around Round Lake, a scenic 2.9-mile (4.6 km) loop that offers a refreshing escape into nature. You will gain a gentle 276 feet (84 metres)…
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Popular around Clark County
Family-friendly hikes around Vancouver
Family-friendly hikes around Camas
Family-friendly hikes in Ridgefield National Wildlife Refuge
Family-friendly hikes in Moulton Falls Regional Park
Family-friendly hikes in Lacamas Regional Park
Family-friendly hikes in Battle Ground Lake State Park
Family-friendly hikes in Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge
Tips from the Community
Round Lake Upper Dam in Camas holds back Round Lake and Lacamas Lake in Lacamas Park. It was built in 1883 for a paper mill; the wooden dam was replaced by a concrete and steel structure in 1935, which raised the lake level by about 12 feet. Today, this area is popular for fishing rainbow and brown trout, bluegill, and bass, while hikers and picnickers have access to benches, grills, and restrooms.
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The East Fork Lewis River is a river in the U.S. state of Washington. It is the largest tributary of the Lewis River. Its source is on Green Lookout Mountain in Skamania County
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This scenic access point to the East Fork Lewis River offers an easy way to enjoy the water. The area is rich with wildlife, including over 20 species of fish, deer, elk, and bald eagles. Multiple access points along the water's edge make it a convenient spot for a break.
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Steigerwald Lake National Wildlife Refuge spans 1,049 acres along the Columbia River. This refuge, part of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, features riparian corridors, wetlands, and Oregon white oak stands. There was a major restoration project that removed 2 miles of levees to reconnect 965 acres of floodplain to the river.
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Turtle Ponds offers a tranquil escape with diverse wildlife along Salmon Creek's rushing waters.
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Round Lakes Upper Dam is an old dam that was built to provide power for a paper mill. There is currently a project in the works to create a fish passage.
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The Camas Potholes draw in swimmers during hot summer days. Some jump from moderately high cliffs into the waters of Lacamas Creek. The unique water flow from the Lacamas Lake outlet dam has carved a few potholes in the rocks, ranging from 3 to 10 feet wide and 3 to 13 feet deep. Unfortunately, the Camas Potholes have been the site of several injuries and fatalities due to falls and drowning.
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Multon Falls Regional park is a a 387 acre park on the East Fork of the Lewis River. It features a high arched swing bridge, two waterfalls, and a narrow tree lined canyon that the river flows through forming its namesake, Moulton Falls.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Clark County?
Clark County offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking opportunities, with over 60 routes specifically curated for this guide. Among these, more than 40 are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with younger children or those seeking a relaxed outing.
Are there any easy, short loop trails suitable for families with small children?
Absolutely! For a gentle and scenic loop, consider the Round Lake Loop Trail. It's an easy route covering about 4.6 kilometers, offering a pleasant walk around the lake that's ideal for families with small children or strollers. Lacamas Lake Regional Park also features scenic loops around the lake.
Which trails feature waterfalls or scenic river views?
Clark County is rich in beautiful waterways. The Moulton Falls via East Fork of the Lewis River Trail is an excellent choice, leading you to the iconic Moulton Falls and offering picturesque views along the East Fork Lewis River. Other notable spots for waterfalls include Lucia Falls and Yacolt Falls, which are part of the East Fork Lewis River system.
Are there any trails that are particularly good for wildlife spotting or birdwatching?
Yes, several trails offer great opportunities for wildlife. The Mountain View, Refuge River, and Gibbons Creek Wildlife Art Trail is located within a wildlife refuge, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching and observing local fauna. Additionally, the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail follows the scenic Salmon Creek, which is known for its diverse wildlife.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Clark County?
The komoot community highly rates the family-friendly trails in Clark County, with an impressive average score of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 69 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the beautiful natural scenery, and the accessibility of many routes for all ages.
Are there any paved or accessible trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
For paved and accessible options, the Salmon Creek Greenway Trail is an excellent choice. It offers a long, paved surface perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and low-intensity walks, providing a high-quality outdoor experience along the creek.
Can I find trails with good viewpoints or scenic vistas?
Clark County offers several trails with rewarding views. While not within the immediate borders, many points in the county provide stunning vistas of the Cascade Mountain Range, including Mount Rainier, Mount St. Helens, and Mount Adams. For panoramic 360-degree views, Silver Star Mountain is accessible via trails like the Grouse Vista Trail on clear days.
What are some interesting landmarks or attractions near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, Clark County has several points of interest. You can explore historical sites like Fort Vancouver, or enjoy the waterfront along the Columbia Riverfront Renaissance Trail. For natural beauty, the Vancouver Lake area and Round Lakes Upper Dam are also popular spots.
Are there any longer, moderate family-friendly loops for a more adventurous outing?
If your family is up for a bit more adventure, the Moulton Falls and Bells Mountain Loop is a moderate option covering nearly 10 kilometers. This trail offers diverse scenery and a more extended experience, combining the beauty of Moulton Falls with the tranquil environment of Bells Mountain.
What is the best time of year for family hiking in Clark County?
Clark County offers great hiking opportunities year-round. Spring brings lush greenery and blooming wildflowers, while summer provides warm, sunny days perfect for exploring. Fall showcases vibrant foliage, and even winter can be enjoyable on lower elevation trails, especially those through dense woodlands which offer shelter. Always check local conditions before heading out.
Where can I find more information about outdoor recreation in Vancouver, WA and Clark County?
For additional resources and information on outdoor recreation, including hiking, in Vancouver, WA and the broader Clark County area, you can visit the official tourism website: visitvancouverwa.com. They also have a blog post highlighting must-see natural areas: Must-See Natural Areas in Clark County.
Most popular routes in Clark County
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