Official websites use .gov
A .gov
website belongs to an official government organization in the
United States.
Secure .gov websites use HTTPS
A lock
(
) or https:// means you've safely
connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only
on official, secure websites.
Trail #263 Dark Meadow
This trail is open to motorcycles, hikers, horses, and bicycles.
Creek crossings and sections of the trail are difficult even for experienced motorcycle riders.
Dark Meadow Trail begins on Forest Road 23, and then crosses East Canyon Creek. The trail passes through Douglas fir and Western Hemlock, before crossing Dark Creek (at mile 1.5), and climbing steeply toward the Dark Meadows area and Juniper Ridge Trail #261.
This trail is named after John Dark who built a cabin in the meadows in 1895 while prospecting in the area. Take a look at the huge boulders in Dark Creek as you're hiking. These are excellent examples of what melting glaciers can leave behind.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | (11/20/2024): Accumulating winter snow depth will generally make this area inaccessible by vehicle from December to June. Always be aware of Snow and Weather conditions before travelling into the forest. Check SNOW conditions here https://wcc.sc.egov.usda.gov Check WEATHER conditions here National Weather Service For more information, please contact the contact the Cowlitz Valley Ranger District at (360) 497-1103. |
|---|---|
| Usage: | Light |
| Closest Towns: | Randle, WA; Packwood, WA |
| Water: | No |
| Restroom: | No |
| Operated By: | Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Cowlitz Valley Ranger District |
General Information
Directions:From Randle, Washington travel south on State Highway 131 (Forest Roads 23 and 25). Veer left in 1 mile at the Y of Forest Road 23 and Forest Road 25. Follow Forest Road 23 about 22.5 miles.
Trail is off Forest Road 23.