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Recreation Region: Cowlitz Valley Area

Trail #270 Valley

The entire trail is open to motorcycle, hiker, horse and bicycle use. The section of the trail east and south of Blue Lake Campground is open to ATV use.

This trail has a gentle grade, with views of the Cispus River Valley and Tongue Mountain.

This trail begins at Forest Road 28 near the Cispus River bridge and ends at Forest Road 78 beyond Cat Creek. From Forest Road 28 to the Blue Lake Trailhead on Forest Road 23 the trail is open to hikers, horses, mountain bikes and motorcycles but not ATVs. This 7.5-mile section follows the Cispus River through stands of mixed conifers and hardwoods. The trail crosses the North Fork River on the Road 23 bridge. Watch for vehicle traffic. The trail continues past the junction of Bishop Ridge Trail #272 and Blue Lake Campground Trail #270A until it meets Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 above the Blue Lake Trailhead on Forest Road 23.

The section of Trail #270 south of Blue Lake Trailhead to Road 78 is open to ATVs as well as hikers, horses, mountain bikes and motorcycles. The Valley Trail continues southeast past the junction with Blue Lake Ridge Trail #271 near Blue Lake Trailhead, to Forest Road 78 just south of Cat Creek.

See Blue Lake Area map and Vicinity around Blue Lake Creek CG map

Specific Trail Information

Trail Number

270

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

A valid Recreation Pass is required to park at Blue Lake ORV trailhead.

No

The entire trail is closed to motorized vehicles from Dec. 1 to April 1 to minimize disturbances to wildlife.

Getting There

Directions

The trail begins at Road 28 near the Cispus River bridge near North Fork Campground.

ATV access to this trail begins from Blue Lake ORV Trailhead to access the southern portion that allows ATV use.

Additional Information

Operated By

Forest Service

Nearby Recreation Sites

Recreation Opportunities

OHV Trail RidingOHV Trail Riding

Last updated August 6th, 2025