Trail #242 Fossil

Area Status: Open

View looking at the sky with tree tops in foreground and a rock face in the near distance.

This 7 mile trail starts in the Kalama Horse Camp before swinging northward and crossing Forest Road 81. After climbing steadily along an old roadbed, the trail enters a magnificent stand of old-growth. The trail passes through a 0.25-mile stretch of young trees before reentering the older forest.

Traversing the western face of Goat Mountain, you enter an ancient stand of old-growth noble fir, ending at a saddle on the north shoulder of the peak. The trail drops downslope and connects with an abandoned road leading to Forest Road 8123.

Trail surrounded by tall trees in a cloudy mist.

Title:	Fossil Trail on a misty early summer day
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Snow along a trail in an open space within a green forested area.

Title:	Fossil Trail in early summer with snow along the higher portion of the trail.
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At a Glance

Current Conditions:	5/15/2023: The #242 Fossil Trail is open, expect snow on trails above 2,000 feet. To view the map of the remaining closure area around the Kalama Fire, click here. To view the current closure order, click here.
Fees:	No fee or pass required. See Mount St. Helens Map for fee and payment areas.
Restrictions:	Horses are prohibited on: Toutle Trail #238 north of the Sheep Canyon Trail #240 intersection Sheep Canyon Trail #240 east of the Toutle Trail #238 Butte Camp Trail #238A
Closest Towns:	Cougar, WA
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:

The trail starts at Kalama Horse Camp (Forest Road 81).

From Woodland, WA take state Route 503 east for approximately 28 miles to Forest Road 81. Take a left on Forest Road 81 towards Kalama Horse Camp Recreation Area. Follow Forest Road 81 north for approximately 8 miles.