| A PICTURE IS WORTH A THOUSAND WORDS |
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CLICK ON ANY HIKE ICON TO JUMP TO THAT HIKE |
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| Hike Length: |
5.5 miles round trip |
| Elev. Change: |
3750' gain |
| Hike Difficulty: |
Very Difficult |
| Type of Hike: |
In and Out |
| Season: |
Summer thru Fall |
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| Trail Numbers: |
#161, 161-B |
| Trail Condition: |
Good |
| Trail Access: |
Excellent |
| Trail Signage: |
Good |
| Features: |
Views, Wildflowers, Lakes |
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| Pet Friendly: |
Yes |
| Useage: |
Minimal |
| Permit: |
NW FP NOT Required |
| Horses: |
Yes |
| Mtn Bikes: |
Yes |
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Summary:
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This hike begins along Forest Road 5270 at about 2400' elevation. Within
the first 2.5 miles you gain nearly 3000'. To say the least, this trail is
a bit steep. It is so steep that they have put steps on the trail in a
couple of places.
Having said that, don't get me wrong. This hike is so worth it! Just
take your time so when you reach the top you can enjoy the unbelievable
views. At 3 miles you come to the junction of Trail #161B which takes
you further uphill to a saddle in the Tatoosh Ridge, then down about
500' elevation to the Tatoosh Lakes.
In season you will be drowned in wildflowers. There is more beauty here
than the eye can behold. Enjoy! The first Tatoosh Lake is rather small,
but the second lake is fairly large. They are both beautiful and provide
such a wonderful place to enjoy solitude. I say solitude because chances
are you may be the only person there due to the difficulty of getting
there.
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The following images are random samples of the wildflowers found in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest.
Mouseover image to view flower name, and click on image to jump to flower guide.
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Directions:
From I-5 junction with US Hwy 12
Travel east on US Hwy 12 for about 64 miles to Packwood.
As you continue eastbound on US Hwy 12 through Packwood, near the east end of the town, you will
come to the junction of Forest Road 52 on your left. Follow FR52 west across the Cowlitz River,
and uphill out of the valley for about 4.1 miles. You will then come to the junction with
Forest Road 5270 on your right. Bear right and follow FR5270 for about 5.6 miles where it
is just about to cross Butter Creek. Bear right onto Forest Road 5272 and follow this road
for about 1.4 miles and you will find the trailhead for both Tatoosh Wilderness hikes on your right.
Click on the link below to see a map taking you to the trailhead.
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