Mount Adams via Divide Camp Trail #112 and PCT

Yes, wilderness permits are required for use in the Mount Adams Wilderness. These are typically free and self-issued at the trailhead. It's always a good idea to check the Gifford Pinchot National Forest website for the most current regulations before your trip.

Parking is available at the trailhead for the Divide Camp Trail #112. Be aware that weekends can see moderate to heavy traffic, so arriving early is advisable to secure a spot.

The best time to hike is generally mid-to-late summer, when the mountain meadows are often blanketed with wildflowers like lupines. Snow can persist on high-elevation sections until mid-July, and mosquitoes are particularly active through July, so carrying repellent is recommended.

The trail is generally dog-friendly, but please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you follow all wilderness regulations regarding pets. Be mindful of other hikers and horse riders, especially on busy weekends.

The Divide Camp Trail #112 is considered of moderate difficulty, involving a steady climb with about 1300 feet of elevation gain over 2.8 miles (one way). While not extreme, beginners should be prepared for a sustained uphill effort. Connecting to the PCT for longer excursions increases the difficulty significantly.

Water sources are limited on the Divide Camp Trail. Adams Creek is the primary option, but its glacial meltwater can be very silty, making filtration challenging. Hikers should plan to carry sufficient water or be prepared to filter effectively.

The trail begins through dense forests, transitioning to sandy and dusty paths. It then opens into attractive mountain meadows filled with seasonal wildflowers, offering stunning views of Mount Adams and its glaciers. As you connect with the PCT, you'll encounter dramatic crags, more glaciers, and sections through lush old burn areas. Views of Mount Rainier and Mount St. Helens are also possible from higher points. Be prepared for sections with lava fields and soft sand/rocks.

Along the route, you'll cross Adams Creek and pass a small pond. Further along, you can find Killen Creek (waterfall) and campsites. The transition from dense forest to expansive, wildflower-strewn alpine meadows with panoramic views of Mount Adams is a major highlight.

Yes, the Divide Camp Trail #112 directly connects to the Pacific Crest Trail #2000 (also known as PCT - Washington Section H). The route also passes through sections of the Killen Creek Trail #113.

The Divide Camp Trail #112 is often favored by hikers for being less crowded than the nearby Killen Creek Trail, especially if you're looking for a quieter experience to access the Mount Adams Wilderness or the PCT.

Glacial creeks, including Adams Creek, can be cloudy with glacial silt, making water filtration challenging. River crossings, particularly those fed by glacial melt, can be significant and sometimes require careful navigation or rock hopping, especially earlier in the season when snowmelt is higher.