Location
This trail climbs from the trailhead on Forest Road 5401 through an old-growth forest to views of the many mountains of the South Cascades from Observation Peak.
Shortly after beginning your hike, the trail crosses the Dry Creek Trail. Continue straight on for about a mile, then arrive at the junction with the Observation Trail near the wilderness boundary.
Stay left, and continue hiking through old-growth forest, along babbling brooks in quiet forest for 5.1 miles to the summit of Observation Peak.
It's possible to make this hike a loop by following the Observation Peak trail around the summit of the peak and back down the way you came, rejoining the Trapper Creek Trail a mile from the trailhead.
If you opt to do this, your total mileage will be 10.5 miles.
Trapper Creek
Southwest Washington
Length
9.0 miles, roundtrip
Elevation
Gain: 3000 ft.
Highest Point: 4607 ft.
Rating
WTA worked here: 2021
Parking Pass/Entry Fee
Northwest Forest Pass
Hike by WTA Community: Multiple authors contributed to this report
Trapper Creek
Map & Directions
Trailhead
Open map in new windowGetting There
From Carson, follow the Wind River Road north for about 13.5 miles. Make a left on Mineral Springs Road (FR-3065). Take the next right onto FR-5401 and follow it for about a half mile to the trailhead.
