Gifford Pinchot National Forest Lava Canyon Natural Area Hike Hike 32
Length: 4 Miles round trip Elevation Change: 800' Elevation gain/loss Season: Spring 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:
This is one of the most unique hikes
I have ever had the fun of hiking. Lava
Canyon is a relic of the past activity
of Mt St Helens. On this hike you will
clearly see 2 main lava events, one
upon the other. The trail wanders
through this geological phenomenon
in an enjoyable way. There are ladders
to climb and bridges to cross. Use
extreme caution, especially when the
trail is wet, and always stay on the
designated trail.
The trail begins as a Universal Access
Trail for the first 1/2 mile. Then
you will come to a junction. You will
return to this junction via the trail
to the left, but for now, bear right
and follow the trail over a bridge
which spans a narrow section of the
Muddy River. Next you will have to
descend a short steep ladder, and
then a long suspension bridge.
After crossing the suspension bridge,
bear right and follow the trail on
a steep descent into the Muddy River
valley toward Smith Creek. You will
pass several waterfalls and spectacular
cascades. The trail is steep and
narrow in places, so use utmost care.
If the trail is wet, it may be best
to NOT PROCEED.
In about a mile, after crossing a
couple small streams, and descending
a tall steep ladder, you will come to
a junction to Trail #184B. Follow
this trail uphill and up another
short but steep ladder to the top
of Ship Rock. Here you will enjoy
excellent views of Lava Canyon and
several of its waterfalls.
Upon return, when you reach the
suspension bridge, bear right this
time, and instead of crossing the
bridge, follow the trail up to the
junction you passed earlier on your
trip down the canyon. At this point
just follow the UA Trail back to
the trail head.
A Virtual Hike in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest
