Goat Creek

Begin your hike at the end of FS 2750, a road pullout that doubles as an entry point for Goat Creek trail. Early on, you’ll find a short spur trail to an eastward valley overlook. After a peek, return to the trail and after a gently rolling 0.9 miles begin to approach the magical Cathedral Falls. Though light and wispy at certain times of year, the falls offer a unique path beneath and behind, winding under a rocky cavernous section with water trickling down in select spots.

Aiming for a longer haul, move past this and continue down Goat Creek trail, absorbing the ambiance of rushing water and enjoying the rolling trail with cliffside views of the creek below. At 1.8 miles and at a modest gain of 550 feet, arrive at the trail junction with the dilapidated sign for Tumwater Mountain, trail to your left. Veer right at the fork. 

Goat Creek trail immediately begins climbing in elevation, with a copious amount of fiddlehead fern that make for a brushy and lush corridor. Occasional stands of old growth tower above you as you gradually ascend and switchback for another 1,000 feet of gain, passing multiple sets of unnamed falls amidst the crashing waters of Goat Creek.

At 3.5 miles, the trail begins to wind alongside a large boggy meadow, adding seemingly unending amounts of various bramble bush to the lining of the path. In another 600 feet, just past a USFS survey monument, you will find yourself at one end of a shallow creek crossing. Full of slippery moss covered rocks, deteriorating logs and other random fell timber, be careful not to slip on any of these. Balance here is key. 

Beyond the creek, cross into high country at 4,000 feet elevation and breathe in the fresh, cool air. While in season, enjoy various forms of wildflower whether it be paintbrush, lupine or bear grass. At mile 5, take a sharp hairpin turn to the hikers left, making your final half-mile push to the ridge line and junction with Goat Mountain trail. At 2,600 feet of elevation gained over 5.5 miles, this is a reasonable turnaround point for the day. 

Extend your hike

There are many destinations to explore further from here. To the north, climb another half mile and 300 feet of elevation to the summit of Vanson Peak, offering commanding views north to Mount Rainier, and southeast to Mount Adams.

For overnight options, descend 0.75 mile down Goat Mountain trail to the junction for nearby Vanson Lake, one-quarter mile further. For the brave and ambitious, head southeast along the ridge on Goat Mountain trail 2.2 miles to the legendary Deadman's Lake for an eerie overnight.