Discover the Majestic Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site
Explore the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site for a unique hiking experience that reveals the ecological wonders and recovery after the Mount St. Helens eruption.
Nestled in the shadow of the iconic Mount St. Helens, the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site offers a unique hiking experience that reveals the ecological impact of the 1980 eruption. As you traverse the trails, you'll witness the remarkable resilience of nature and the stunning contrast between the lush, thriving forest and areas still recovering from volcanic activity.
A brief summary to Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site
- 9945 Virginia 122, Cougar, Washington, 98616, US
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views of Mount St. Helens and the diverse landscapes.
- Wear sturdy hiking shoes, as some trails may be uneven and require good grip.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the mountains.
- Take your time on the interpretive trail to fully appreciate the ecological information presented.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car within Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, start from the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center located at 3029 Spirit Lake Hwy, Toutle, WA 98649. Head east on Spirit Lake Hwy (WA-504) for approximately 17 miles. After passing the junction for Road 90, look for the signs directing you to the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site. Turn onto Forest Road 81 and continue for about 4 miles. The interpretive site will be on your left at 9945 Virginia 122, Cougar, WA 98616. There is no fee to access the site itself, but there may be a parking fee at the visitor center.
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Public Transportation
To reach the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site via public transportation, you will need to first take public transit to the nearest major town, which is Cougar, WA. Check local transit schedules for routes to Cougar from larger cities like Vancouver or Portland. Once in Cougar, you can use a taxi service or rideshare app to cover the remaining distance (approximately 5 miles) to the site located at 9945 Virginia 122. Be sure to confirm transportation availability in advance, as services may vary.
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Bicycle
For those looking to bicycle to the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site, you can start at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center. Follow Spirit Lake Hwy (WA-504) east for about 17 miles, then turn onto Forest Road 81. The site is approximately 4 miles down this road. Ensure that you wear appropriate safety gear and check the weather conditions before setting out, as the terrain can be challenging and it is essential to have a good level of fitness for this ride.
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Hiking
If you prefer to hike to the Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site, you can create a multi-day trip starting from the Mount St. Helens Visitor Center. Plan your route through the surrounding trails, keeping in mind the distance and elevation changes. The site is approximately 21 miles from the visitor center, so prepare adequately with maps, supplies, and permits if required. This option is best for experienced hikers familiar with the area.
Discover more about Trail of Two Forests Interpretive Site
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