This is a great hike if starting from the lake.  The upper loop trail has several down trees and the vegetation is fairly thick in a few places. Also, there were a few times when it was difficult to find the trail.  This is especially true in the lava flow area.  There are lots of huckleberries right now and it is overall a peaceful experience.

Many downed trees block the trail and make navigation difficult.

WILLIAMS MINE WILDFIRE UPDATE 8/8/2024: 

CLICK HERE For ALL sources regarding Williams Mine Fire.

Please click here for the Forest Order regarding the Williams Mine Fire. Click Here for the closure area map. Click here for current smoke and air quality levels. 

Per Inciweb here, the fire is now at 5,186 acres. It is burning along the west side of Mt. Adams near Forest Road 23 in a South to Southeast direction toward Trout Lake. Trout Lake south of the fire remains in Evacuation Level 2 Get Set, while residences to the east are at Level 3 Go Now. You will find all current emergency evacuation notices and updates here on Klickitat County Emergency Management. 

Type 3 Crews are on scene as well as local firefighters performing firefighting operations and closing off roads due to the wildfire. A complete list of closed trails and roads are currently being developed. Visit this page to see a list of trails and roads closed in the interim of an official announcement. 

Smoke is prevalent in the area and surrounding as a result of the wildfire smoke. If you are sensitive to smoke, use caution and mask up if you must be outside. It is recommended to avoid Trout Lake Washington at this time due to the active wildfire and firefighting efforts, as well as high smoke levels. 

The lake loop was a short, pleasant trail with lots of stunning views of the lake and Mt Adams. Bugs weren’t too bad on this section, but we had to give up on the meadow loop as the biting flies were too much for us (even with copious amounts of bug spray). Less mosquitos, but still a few around. We wish we could have explored the lava flow more. Wildflowers were lovely and a few wild blueberries and huckleberries were ripe. The lake is great for wading/swimming - lots of entry points with a gentle slope. Sunset here is very cool.

At mile 19 on Hwy 23, the paved road is slow going as there are a lot of massive pot holes and former washouts that have been patched. There is some fading spray paint to help signal problem areas, but it’s definitely the worst section to navigate. As someone else said, the gravel road after that is in better shape. It returns to paved road for the last mile or so. Worth it, just be prepared.

This is a wonderful hike in a beautiful setting. The lava flow section was a highlight for everyone, including the kids. A bit of exposure and a downed log on one section of the descent gave it a bit of excitement but nothing anyone in our group couldn't handle (including three 8 year olds and a 12 year old). The bugs were not too bad the first leg of the hike but once near the meadow and the balance of the hike, we were practically running back to camp. Suggest bringing lots of picaridin and head nets, as well as long sleeves and pants until the bugs die out. 

The road to Takhlakh was in decent condition. The paved section is worse than the gravel section, with a good amount of dips and holes. Thankfully, someone spray painted around them, which make them easier to spot. We towed our pop-up camper and had no issues getting there in one piece.