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Forest Road 81

On the southwest side of Mount St. Helens, Forest Road 81 provides an experience away from crowds. On this road, access Kalama Horse Camp, Red Rock Pass and Forest Road 830, the road to Climber's Bivouac and the start of the summer climbing route. From the west, the road begins on Forest Road 90, near Cougar, WA, and travels through private timberlands and state lands before entering Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. The road connects with Forest Road 83 on its east side. While mostly paved, be prepared for several miles of gravel (between Forest Road 830 and 8123) and a road that is sometimes very rough.

Current Conditions
05/02/2025: Forest Road 81 is currently still snowbound between Red Rock Pass and Forest Road 8123.

General Information

Road loops through the forest between Cougar Sno-Park and State Highway 503 near Cougar WA.

Contact Name: Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument & District

Contact Phone: (360) 449-7800

Getting There

Directions

From Cougar, WA take Lewis River Road/Forest Road 90 east for 6.4 miles then go left on Forest Road 83. Follow Forest Road 83 for 3 miles then stay left onto Forest Road 81.

From Woodland, WA take state Route 503 east for approximately 28 miles to Forest Road 81, 1/4 mile before the town of Cougar WA.

Facility and Amenity Information

Accessibility

Restrooms

Restrooms are not available at this site.

Water

Potable water is not available at this site.

Last updated May 2nd, 2025