Trailhead: Independence Pass

Area Status: Open

Independence Pass Trail has experienced significant washouts. Independence Pass Trail #227 north of its junction with Trail #227A is in poor condition. Hiking on this section is not recommended, as the trail has narrow sections along eroded cliff bands.

Provides access to: Independence Pass Trail #227 and Independence Ridge Trail #227A.

Located on Forest Road 99 this trailhead also accesses a short hike to an interpretive view point of Spirit Lake.

At a Glance

Current Conditions:	07/17/2023: Independence Pass is open. Due to a landslide of Forest Road 25, Randle and Forest Road 99 will be inaccessible from Cougar this summer. Learn More.
Fees:	$5/vehicle/day or a valid Recreation Pass. 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:	Heavy
Restrictions:	Pets must be on leash at all times.
Closest Towns:	Randle, WA
Water:	No
Restroom:	No
Passes:	America the Beautiful or Northwest Forest Pass accepted.
Operated By:	Forest Service
Information Center:	Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument Administrative Headquarters (360) 449-7800 Gifford Pinchot National Forest Offices/Visitor Centers

General Information

Directions:

Forest Road 99

Accessibility:
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.