Skip to main content
Recreation Region: Mt. Adams Area

Trail #113 Killen Creek

This Trail Open to Hiker and Equestrian Use.

Historically used for berry-picking and later for sheepherding on Mt. Adams, the 3.1 miles Killen Creek Trail climbs through forested areas and open meadows within Mt. Adams Wilderness. It offers spectacular views of Mt. Adams as well as meadows full of wildflowers in season. The trail ends on the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 at about 6000 feet near the intersection with High Camp Trail #10.

It is often used as an access trail for mountain climbers attempting routes up the north faces of Mt. Adams. Review the Mt. Adams Summit page for information about climbing Mt. Adams. A Mt. Adams Climbing Activity Pass is required from May 1st to September 30th for anyone age 16 and older traveling above 7000ft elevation on Mt. Adams, even if not attempting the summit.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

113

General Information

Low elevation trails typically melt out by mid-May. High elevation trails typically melt out by mid-July.  Snow may persist in spots on north facing slopes. There may be downed trees, washouts, and/or landslides on trails. Carrying mosquito repellent is advisable. Backcountry creeks and streams may dry out so plan ahead in case you need to bring in water.  Recreating in burned areas poses greater risks. See safety tips for burned areas. Please assist in reporting wildfires by calling 911 or Columbia Dispatch at (360) 891-5140.  Sign up for emergency alerts by county. 

Skamania County; Lewis County; Cowlitz County

  • Wilderness permit required to enter Mt Adams Wilderness. Permits are free and self-issued at trailhead.
  • Purchase of a Mt. Adams Climbing Activity Pass is required if you are climbing above 7,000 feet elevation in Mt. Adams Wilderness, between May 1 and September 30.

No

Wilderness Regulations apply in Mt Adams Wilderness Building, maintaining, or using a campfire, within Mt. Adams Wilderness is prohibited:

Getting There

Directions

Killen Creek Trailhead

From Trout Lake, WA take Mt Adams Road for 1.3 mi. Continue on Forest Road 23 towards ​Randle and follow for approximately 23 miles. Then take Forest Road 2329 (towards Takhlakh Lake) and follow for about 5 miles to the trailhead.

Additional Information

Operated By

Forest Service

Recreation Opportunities

Last updated August 5th, 2025