Length
Elevation Gain
Highest Point
Merrill Lake Conservation Area is a seasonal campground that includes a short and sweet loop trail around a lake. Along the way are 10 interpretative signs that supplement what hikers see around them.
The trail is on the east side of the lake, at the boat ramp parking lot. Walking this family-friendly path makes for a casual, low-key outing, and includes four benches spaced along with way for resting.
Spared from the axe, visitors will see old-growth Douglas Fir and Western redcedar. The lake was formed by the Mount St. Helens ‘Cave Basalt Flow’ 1700 years ago which blocked part of the Kalama River. The Department of Natural Resources maintains the trail.
Trailhead
