Trail #1 Boundary

The Boundary Trail is 53.7 miles long and has numerous access points and trail junctions. The trail once formed the boundary between the Columbia and Rainier National Forests. Now it marks the southern boundary of the Cowlitz Valley District. This was an important trail in the early history of the Forest Service as it was the principal route used by rangers on horseback patrols. The trail was well established by 1911.

The west end of this trail is open to hikers only (from Bear Meadows west). The east end of the trail is open to motorcycles, hikers, horses and bicycles (from Bear Meadows east).

From the west the trail begins at Norway Pass area within the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. From Norway Pass to Bear Meadows the trail is open to hikers only. Enjoy excellent views of Mount St. Helens as you hike through the blown-down forest.

From Bear Meadows eastward the trail is open to hikers, horses, motorcycles and bicycles. From Bear Meadow to Elk Pass (4.5 miles), the trail is on a timbered, broad ridge, with occasional views of St. Helens along its length, this trail offers views of St. Helens, Rainier, Adams and a few glimpses of Hood. This area was glaciated repeatedly during the Ice Age. The marks of the glaciers' passage can be seen in the knifelike ridges and cirque basins all along the trail. The trail ends in the east at Council Lake.

Trail segments:

• Boundary Trail #1: Hummocks to Norway Pass TH to Bear Meadow Interpretive Site (Mount St. Helens 360-449-7800)
• Boundary Trail #1: Bear Meadow to Elk Pass TH to Yellow Jacket #1A to Council Lake, (Cowlitz Valley Ranger District 360-497-1100)