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Independence Pass trail has experienced significant washouts- visitors cannot safely hike beyond the first 1.5 miles of the trail from the Independence Pass trailhead and will be unable to connect with the Boundary Trail.
This trail offers views of Spirit Lake, Mount St. Helens, the crater, and lava dome this trail continues north and ends at its junction with Boundary Trail #1 (area is unavailable) at Norway Pass. Sections of the Independence Pass Trail # 227 may not be suitable for people who are uncomfortable with heights.
The trail climbs for 0.25 mile to Independence Pass and then continues north, contouring steep pumice slopes providing a bird’s eye view of Spirit Lake. One mile from the trailhead is the junction with Independence Ridge Trail #227A. After this junction Independence Pass Trail loops around the western flank of Independence Ridge. A spectacular viewpoint is reached in 1.5 miles.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: |
- Forest Road 99 is gated for the winter just past Wakepish Sno-Park. The road normally opens around the end of June.
- Independence Pass Trail has experienced significant washouts. Visitors cannot safely hike beyond the first 1.5 miles of the trail from the Independence Pass trailhead and will be unable to connect with the Boundary Trail.
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| Fees |
$5/vehicle/day or a valid Recreation Pass required at Independence Pass Trailhead. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment sites. |
| Permit Info: |
Mount Margaret Backcountry Permit required for overnight camping in the Mount Margaret Backcountry. |
| Usage: |
Light-Medium |
| Restrictions: |
- Off trail travel prohibited west of Independence Pass Trail #227.
- No pets, stock, bicycles.
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| Closest Towns: |
Randle, WA |
| Operated By: |
Forest Service |
| Information Center: |
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General Information
Directions:
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 12.2 miles to Independence Pass Trailhead.
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HIDE
