Recreation Region: Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument & Surrounding Area

Trail #233 Trail of Two Forests

This ¼ mile long boardwalk trail leads you over a 2,000 year-old lava flow from Mount St. Helens. Lava ran through the forest and around trees, which burst into flames. The lava solidified around the trunks and trunks rotted away, leaving tree wells, voids in which the impressions of the bark remain. Interpretive signs along the route tell the story of this ancient event. Climb down a ladder and through a dark, tree well. Enjoy today’s forest of fir, hemlock, and brilliant, green moss growing on the old lava. The boardwalk is accessible and kid friendly. Picnic tables and a pit toilet are available.

To protect fragile geologic features and plant life, please stay on the boardwalk.

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

233

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

April 1 to Nov. 30: $5/vehicle/day or valid Recreation Pass required at Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites.
Dec.1 to March 31: Washington State Sno-Park Permit required at Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site. Not available on-site. Purchase online or from a vendor. No other pass required during Sno-Park season.