Trail #1: Boundary- Truman #207 to Norway Pass

Area Status: Closed

This section of Boundary Trail #1 runs 13.2 miles from Truman Trail #207 to Norway Pass Trailhead east to west. Most people accessing this portion of Boundary Trail #1 will start at Norway Pass Trailhead and hike west. Norway Pass Trailhead is a major access point to Mount Margaret Backcountry.

From Norway Pass Trailhead this maintained trail climbs steadily east to Norway Pass and then switchbacks up to Bear Pass. You'll pass junctions with Independence Ridge Trail #227A, Independence Pass Trail #227 and Lakes Trail #211. Boundary Trail #1 follows the north side of the ridge providing views of Meta Lake, Mount Adams and Mount Rainier. Mount St. Helens remains hidden from view until the trail reaches a rewarding vista at Norway Pass which is one of the Monument's most dramatic views. Portions of this part of the trail are steep and little shade is offered. The trail continues east to traverse the Mount Margaret ridgeline. It then descends from Mt. Margaret and then climbs steeply to the Coldwater Peak area and its junction with Truman Trail #207

Although in the midst of the blast zone, the trail is alive with color. In summer, rich greens and the vibrant hues of wildflowers paint the area. Enjoy views of Mount St. Helens and Spirit Lake. To the north, Mount Whittier rises abruptly from the Coldwater Valley, and Mount Rainier can be seen on the distant horizon. Take the side trip to Coldwater Peak and enjoy an outstanding panorama of the beautiful Cascade Mountains and Mount St. Helens' dynamic volcanic landscape.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	03/19/2024: The Norway Pass Trailhead is closed. Due to a landslide on Forest Road 25, Randle and Forest Road 99 are inaccessible from Cougar. Learn More.
Fees:	No fee or pass requried, however site use at Johnston Ridge Observatory requires an America the Beautiful Pass or $8 per adult, children 15 and younger are free. An ANNUAL Northwest Forest Pass admits one. $5/vehicle/day or valid Recreation Pass required at Norway Pass Trailhead. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites.
Permit Info:	A Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit is required for camping in the Mount Margaret Backcountry. Camping is allowed in designated sites only. Advance reservation only.
Usage:	Medium
Best Season:	Summer
Busiest Season:	Summer
Restrictions:	Boundary Trail east of Norway Pass Trailhead is within the restricted area boundary: No livestock, bicycles, pets, or fires are allowed. Camping is allowed in designated sites with a Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit. Off-trail travel and camping are prohibited to protect sensitive natural features and scientific studies. Research permits are required for off-trail travel.
Closest Towns:	Randle, WA
Water:	Yes, at Norway Pass Trailhead
Restroom:	Vaulted Toilets at Norway Pass Trailhead
Information Center:	Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Administrative Headquarters (360) 449-7800 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Offices/Visitor Centers

General Information

Directions:

East access: Norway Pass Trailhead

From Cougar, WA take Lewis River Road east for 2.8 miles. The road then changes to Forest Road 90. Continue on Forest Road 90 for 16 miles and stay to the left on Forest Road 25, pass the Pine Creek Information Center. Drive Forest Road 25 for 25 miles to the junction of Forest Road 99. Turn left onto Forest Road 99 towards Windy Ridge. Drive approximately 9.2 miles to Forest Road 26 and turn right. The Norway Pass Trailhead will be on your left on Forest Road 26.

General Notes:

Snow covered slopes can exisit into mid summer. Hikers should be prepared for changes in weather and terrain. This section of the Boundary Trail is exposed with little shade or protection from wind, sun and rain.