Gifford Pinchot National Forest Independence Pass ~ Spirit Lake Overlook Hike Hike 36
Length: 5 Miles round trip Elevation Change: 400' Elevation gain Season: Summer thru Fall Difficulty: Moderate Permit: NW Forest Pass Required
Volcano Alert
Call this number to see if this trail is closed: 360-449-7800 Features:
Here is a little hike that has tons of beauty
for the buck.... in other words, lots of value
for little effort. This hike not only gives
you outstanding vistas, but allows you to
see close up just how devastating the explosion
of Mt St Helens really was. The hike begins along
Forest Road 99 and begins an immediate gentle
climb.
In a short distance the trail breaks over the
ridge and you are presented with excellent
views of Mt St Helens and Spirit Lake. In
the first half mile of this hike there are
a number of signs and explanation boards to
make your hike more interesting and informed.
Then the trail becomes more rustic and climbs
gently toward Independence Pass. At a mile
you will come to the junction of Trail #227A.
Continue on, bearing to the left as the trail
continues. Along this part of the trail,
you will be presented with outstanding views
of Mt St Helens, Spirit Lake, and even Mt Hood
in the far distance.
A Virtual Hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
