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Trail #44 Cowlitz
This trail is open to hiker and horse use only.
This trail within William O. Douglas Wilderness winds through dense forest into subalpine terrain, crosses many small streams, and passes lakes and small potholes including Penoyer Lake. Continuing east, Trail #44 crosses the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail #2000 and ends near the Gifford Pinchot National Forest boundary on Tumac Mountain.
The trail begins at Soda Springs trailhead which is not open to horses. Stock users please use Cowlitz Horse Trail #44A.
Features include Summit Creek and many subalpine lakes. This trail marks a principal Native American travel route across the Cascades. It is part of the prehistoric Yakama Cowlitz Trail, which linked people from the Cowlitz Valley with people from the Yakima River drainage. Native Americans using this trail traveled on foot, often carrying trade goods and roots. They later made the crossing on horseback.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | 5/19/23: Forest Road 4510 was accessible to Soda Springs campground. Campground still has deep snow and is inaccessible by vehicle at this time. Trail has heavy deep snow which may pose a hazard to hike safely at this time. |
|---|---|
| Permit Info: | Wilderness Permit Required. Permits are free and available at the trailhead. |
| Best Season: | Summer |
| Restrictions: | Wilderness Regulations apply |
| Closest Towns: | Randle, WA; Packwood WA |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | No |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Cowlitz Valley Ranger District |