2.7
(2)
76
hikers
Cougar Trails Loop
01:19
4.91km
50m
Hiking
The Cougar Trails Loop offers a surprisingly diverse and easy hiking experience right on the WSU Vancouver campus. You'll wander through lush woods with dense stands of Douglas fir and western red cedar, cross boardwalks, and even pass through a heritage garden dedicated to preserving heirloom plants. The varied surfaces and gentle rolling hills make for a pleasant journey, and on clear days, you might even catch views of Mount St. Helens and Mount Hood from campus areas.
This easy 3.1-mile (4.9 km) route involves a modest 177 feet (54 metres) of elevation gain, taking about 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete. It's a fantastic option for a quick, accessible hike, whether you're looking for family-friendly trails or just a peaceful walk. Parking is available on the WSU Vancouver campus, making it a convenient choice for a spontaneous outdoor adventure.
The trail system is known for its commitment to sustainability, with the WSU Vancouver campus consistently recognized as a Tree Campus Higher Education institution. Beyond the natural beauty, the Mill Creek Riparian Interpretive Trail offers insights into local ecology. It's a multi-use path suitable for walking, jogging, and biking, with some sections even being ADA accessible and stroller-friendly, ensuring it's a welcoming spot for almost everyone.
Last updated: June 9, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Parking
Get Directions
4.04 km
Multiuse path into Washington State University
Highlight (Segment) • Trail
Tip by
4.91 km
End point
Parking
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
2.97 km
1.93 km
Surfaces
2.77 km
1.03 km
588 m
400 m
< 100 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Today
Wednesday 1 July
21°C
11°C
39 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I park to access the Cougar Trails Loop?
The Cougar Trails Loop is located on the Washington State University Vancouver campus. Parking is available on campus, making it convenient to access the trail system.
Are there any permits or fees required to hike the Cougar Trails Loop?
No, there are no permits or entrance fees required to hike the Cougar Trails Loop. It's freely accessible to the public.
Is the Cougar Trails Loop dog-friendly?
Yes, the trail is pet-friendly. However, dogs must be kept on a leash at all times to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all trail users and local wildlife.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The Cougar Trails Loop can be enjoyed year-round. The mixed forest provides ample shade during warmer months. However, be aware that some sections near Mill Creek can become muddy, especially after rain or during wetter seasons.
What is the terrain like on the trail?
The terrain on the Cougar Trails Loop is varied, featuring compacted dirt, wood chips, and some paved sections, along with occasional boardwalks. It has mild ups and downs with a relatively small elevation gain, making it generally easy to navigate.
Is the trail suitable for beginners or families with children?
Absolutely! The Cougar Trails Loop is considered easy and is very suitable for beginners and families. It's known for being kid-friendly, with small bridges over streams often being a favorite feature for children.
What kind of scenery can I expect along the route?
You can expect diverse scenery, including dense mixed forests with towering Douglas fir and western red cedar trees, tranquil open meadows, and charming wooden bridges crossing small streams like Mill Creek. You'll also see parts of the university campus and potentially a heritage garden.
Are there any notable features or points of interest along the trail?
Beyond the natural beauty, notable features include the Multiuse path into Washington State University, sections alongside the picturesque Mill Creek (a salmon-spawning creek), and a heritage garden. The campus setting also provides amenities like restrooms and water fountains.
Is it easy to navigate the various loops?
The trail system is extensive and includes various color-coded loops. While mostly well-maintained, the varying paths and sometimes unmarked turns mean that having a map, even a digital one, is highly recommended for navigation, especially when exploring beyond the main routes.
Are there amenities available on or near the trail?
Yes, thanks to its integration with the WSU Vancouver campus, you'll find amenities such as restrooms, water fountains, and emergency blue light stations conveniently located along the paths.
How long does it typically take to hike the Cougar Trails Loop?
The main loop, which is about 4.9 kilometers (3 miles), typically takes around 1 hour and 18 minutes to complete. However, with over six miles of interconnected trails, you can customize your distance and duration by exploring different color-coded loops.
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