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An almost-completely-forgotten nature loop near Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument. You won’t see the mountain here, but two trailside giants remain from time gone by, and are impressive enough to warrant a visit if you’re in the area.
From the small trailhead, dive straight into the woods and walk along a faint but still fairly easy-to-follow path. While you’ll be able to hear Quartz Creek, you won’t see it. Still, it makes for nice background soundtrack to your loop.
About a third of the way through, see if two enormous old-growth trees don’t stop you in your tracks. Ogle at these giants – easily more than five feet in diameter – before carrying on. A few hundred feet on, a short section of old boardwalk provides a change of pace before the trail turns sharply and heads back to the parking area. Tiptoe out via a separate exit (the loop doesn’t actually meet up with itself) and head back to your car and further adventures.
Trailhead
