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:	11/21/2023: The #242 Fossil Trail is open.
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.