Trail #233 Trail of Two Forests

Area Status: Open

This ¼ mile long boardwalk trail leads you over a 2,000 year-old lava flow from Mount St. Helens. Lava ran through the forest and around trees, which burst into flames. The lava solidified around the trunks and trunks rotted away, leaving tree wells, voids in which the impressions of the bark remain. Interpretive signs along the route tell the story of this ancient event. Climb down a ladder and through a dark, tree well. Enjoy today’s forest of fir, hemlock, and brilliant, green moss growing on the old lava. The boardwalk is accessible and kid friendly. Picnic tables and a pit toilet are available.

To protect fragile geologic features and plant life, please stay on the boardwalk.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	04/01/22: Trail of Two Forests site has opened for the season and the boardwalk has been cleared. Recreation pass or $5 day use fee required. Forest Road 8303 is gated just beyond Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site until May 18th, with the opening of Ape Cave. Pedestrian and vehicular traffic are prohibited beyond the gate on 8303 this year due to the Ape Cave closure.
Fees:	April 1 to Nov. 30: $5/vehicle/day or valid Recreation Pass required at Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites. Dec.1 to March 31: Washington State Sno-Park Permit required at Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site. Not available on-site. Purchase online or from a vendor. No other pass required during Sno-Park season.
Closest Towns:	Cougar, WA
Restroom:	Vault Toilet (1) at trailhead
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Administrative Headquarters (360) 449-7800 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Offices/Visitor Centers