Although Goat Peak trail was challenging, the views at the top and along the way made it all worth it. There is no need for a parking pass across from Hells Crossing Campground. The climb to Goat Peak is more like 3 miles (some sources state 2.5). I took my 14 year old daughter with me and she did just fine. There were a few obstacles on the trail to climb over but nothing to complain about. The view along the top is incredible--Bumping Lake, Mt. Rainier, Mt. Adams, and many ridges.
We decided to take American Ridge trail down to Pleasant Valley Lake trail and then Pleasant Valley Loop trail back to the parking area. A nice 9 mile loop. However, I probably won't go this way again. The American Ridge trail section was fine and not alot of obstacles. However, the Pleasant Valley Lake trail had so many down trees and seemed just a steep in places (as the Goat Peak trail), that I regretted going this way. It really slowed us down.
The Pleasant Valley Loop trail, west, back to the parking area was in great shape as it is popular trail in the area.
There were many butterflies and chipmunks to see along our hike.
It is sad that so many trail on Chinook Pass haven't been cleared of down trees. There are so many great views that can't be accessed.
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